Read: Genesis 1:1—2:4

In the beginning when God created the heavens and the earth, . . . God said, “Let there be light;” and there was light. Genesis 1:1 & 3

In the beginning, as it is to this day, words bring forth life. The ancient and holy story of the first chapter of Genesis tells of the origins of creation. All things began with the spoken word. Light and darkness, sky and sea, earth and vegetation, animals and humankind were spoken into existence. God speaks, and life forms.

Words are powerful things. They can build up, or they can tear down. They can be used to heal or to hurt. They can bring peace or incite war. In the beginning, God spoke and goodness came into being. The same can happen with our words. A carefully timed compliment can lift spirits. A word of encouragement can give shape to a life. A loving word can lead to intimacy that literally gives birth to life.

How can your words bring life to others?

Lord, You have spoken all things into being. I owe my own existence to Your word. Your words are life-giving. Help me to choose my words carefully, so that when I speak, life abounds. In Jesusname, I pray. AMEN.