The power of words

When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire,

and is itself set on fire by hell. James 3:3-6 (NIV)

"Hurry up."

"Stop."

"Throw this away."

Life is full of words used to direct others to act - or not act.

This past week, I traveled with our high school band to Indianapolis, IN. We had a fantastic time, but traveling with 180 teenagers for 5 days provided many, many opportunities to use my words. Infrequently, I barked an order, with mixed results.

I noticed, not surprisingly, that when I added:

"Please."

"Thank you."

"I understand you're tired, but..."

I got a completely different result.

At the same time, when people barked at me (it only happened a few times, but...), I reacted far differently than when people asked respectfully of me (thanks guys!). I was there to help our kids achieve a goal, so whether people barked orders or asked respectfully, I got the work done. However, those barked orders wore me down. The respectful requests gave me a sense of being a valuable member of the team.

I'm not sharing anything new or earth-shattering here. I know that. But this trip provided the opportunity to see both sides in action. I got to "feel" both sides as well. I hope I remember the lessons learned on this trip for a long time - and act accordingly! :)

I want to be a blessing to others. I hope my words will be just that!