To be told and really know that you are special can change your life. Words have the power to build up or tear down, they literally have the power of life and death. That’s why it’s important to think before we speak. That’s why it’s important to carefully choose the words we hear and take note of. Words really do shape how we see ourselves and the way we live our lives.
In his book ‘The Five Love Languages’, Gary Chapman identifies words of affirmation as a powerful way to communicate love to others. But note, it’s not any old words, it’s words that affirm. Words that encourage, build up and give life. Sadly, it seems words that affirm who we are rather than what we do, are rare these days. It is so much easier to find fault and tear each other down than give praise and celebrate how incredibly special we truly are.
Recently, I wrote a blog reminding us how important it is to encourage one another but it was only half the story (read HERE). You see, the power of words does not only lie in the words themselves, but it also lies in the person who delivers them. The closer and more influential they are in our lives, the more significant and greater the potential their words have to shape us. That’s why the words we heard our parents say when we were infants can ring in our ears for the rest of our lives. That’s why the seemingly flippant or passing comment of a trusted friend can sting more than they realise. That’s why the feedback from an inspirational boss can leave us wounded.
Twice during His life on earth, Jesus was publicly affirmed by his Father in heaven. Once at his baptism (Matthew 3:17) and the second high on a mountain with Peter, James, and John (Matthew 17:5). Throughout his ministry on earth, Jesus would face many challenges. Some followers would leave, he would be betrayed by friends and ultimately, he was crucified in front of a mocking crowd even though he was innocent of any crime. Yet, his Father in heaven effectively said, “Son, you are special”. Before Jesus had done anything praiseworthy, his Father affirmed his identity. It was these words, I believe, that rang in the ears of Jesus and enabled Him to face the coming trials, tests, and temptations. Jesus knew who he was because his Father had told him. Jesus could overlook and put into perspective what anyone else said because he had the affirmation of his heavenly Father. The second time the Bible records the Father speaking words of life to Jesus, He also adds, ‘Listen to him!’ This was for the benefit of those who were with Jesus, it was said for us to hear today. The most significant words we can hear and choose to build our lives upon are the words of Jesus. The truth is, when we stop and listen, the same words the Father said, Jesus says to us, “You are Special!” We are unique, one of a kind. The Father says we are ‘fearfully and wonderfully made’ (Psalm 139:14). We are the Father’s masterpiece, designed and planned for purpose (Ephesians 2:10).
In a story written by Max Lucado, the central character Punchinello struggles because of the continual bombardment of cruel words delivered by those he lives with. Made of wood, unkind words make their mark, but kind words bring healing. Eventually He is invited to meet Eli, the carpenter who made him. Every time he visits, Punchinello hears words of affirmation from the person who lovingly created him and gave him life, and eventually realises it is true: ‘He is special!’
Let me encourage you to stop and take a moment. Whoever you are, whatever you have done, wherever you live, you have a Father in heaven who loves you today and says, “You are special”. The more we take time to visit Him and listen to His words, the more we will believe. The more we will find healing and be restored to the people He planned and created us to be.
Be kind to yourself and watch the short version of ‘You are special’ by Max Lucado free HERE or the 27-minute animated version HERE. A great watch for children and grandchildren too!
Featured photo by Viktor Talashuk on Unsplash
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