The Right Words

Striving for the right words

Choosing the right words is more than a quest for this writer.

It’s a drive that compels me to keep trying until I feel every word is an exact fit.

Finding the exact words takes focus.

What are the wrong words?

If I’m focused on the world’s problems, or the news, or politics, that’s where my words will come from.

Unfortunately, most of us know words that inflame hatred and resistance from people who don’t agree with us.

More and more, they’re being blasted like water from a fire hose.

And I’m heartbroken those words are coming from more and more people.

People I never expected would use them.

Why I don’t want to use the wrong words

There are reasons I don’t want to use those words:

— I was bought at the highest price ever paid by anyone.

— I belong to God and I’m His representative.

— I must strive, with God’s help, to speak as Jesus did.

What are the right words?

Jesus IS the WORD. Jesus IS the Truth.

So Jesus ALWAYS told the truth.

But ALWAYS in a way that pointed others to God.

Jesus did not use degrading terms that inflamed hatred.

Yes, sometimes people disagreed with Jesus. And some hated Him.

But He didn’t hate them back.

He didn’t condemn anyone. With His words or His actions.

He paid the highest price ever paid by anyone — for everyone.

Because He loves everyone.

Why I want to use the right words

Jesus expects me to use my words the same way He uses words.

Thankfully, God knows I’m not perfect, and forgives me when I lose focus and don’t use the words He wants.

But I’m still responsible for every word I speak or write.

And God holds me accountable.

For every word I speak or write.

How do I find the right words?

My prayer for myself, and everyone, is:

May you seek God for all of your words, and stay focused on the words He gives. And remember that every word has the power to help or to harm. And the power to point others to God — or divert their focus away from Him.

How do you find the right words?

The Right Words – How do you find them? Share on X

Joni Vance is an award-winning author of fiction, essay, and poetry. She loves mystery, history, and how God reveals Himself every day.

May God reveal the mystery of His love in your life story.