Speaking Words of Life Over Our Children.

The other day, I received a handful of kind, encouraging DMs... and tucked right in the middle, a message that was callous, judgmental, and really stung.

Suddenly, it was all I could see.

Then I thought of my own children. If a perfect stranger's words could affect me so deeply, how much more would my children be affected by their own mother's words?

Words are powerful. Proverbs 18:21 even tells us that death and life are in the power of the tongue. And for children, words are the building blocks of self-image and self-worth. The words we speak over them become the voices inside their heads.

I've watched my own children cower under the weight of my words (and specifically, my tone). I'm not talking about an apt word of discipline. I'm talking about a sharp, "I can't believe you just did that!" or "I shouldn't have to tell you that again."

Are our words hurting or healing?

If this has been a struggle for you, there is so much hope! God is gracious to forgive and redeem, and today can be the first day you walk in freedom and obedience.

I want to share a few favorite "words of life" I'm intentionally speaking over my children. I encourage you to choose just one that you can adopt and start using today! 

"No matter what, you are loved. Nothing you can ever do will change that."

For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.   - Romans 8:38-39

"We can do hard things, because God is with us."

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear or dread of them, for it is the Lord your God who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you. - Deuteronomy 31:6

"You are a precious gift from God."

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. - Psalm 127:3

"Let's trust God with that (worry/decision). He'll show us the way."

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. - Proverbs 3:5-6