Words Relate.

Words matter. So do ideas, actions and, well.... we could write quite a list. And many have. But the reason words matter is simple and profound.

The power of communication lies in the quality of the relationship.

Think of how much we write off, that is spoken in passing, whether in jest, sarcasm or opinion from people who we don't interact with on a regular basis or don't have a much a depth to speak of regarding the nature of your relationship. The value, the quality, the priority of their influence in your life... it's not that they are bad people or anything else. Maybe some things could and should be corrected; maybe it's just the nature of the relationship.

But think about the relationships in which there is great love, deep respect, incredible gratitude, an unbreakable bond and a resolute commitment. The truth can be shared. Joy is experienced. Grief is journeyed. Life is experienced. It's those kinds of relationships that are especially sensitive to the truth found Proverbs regarding our speech.

The power of life and death is held by the tongue. 

The Gospel is an incredible message. But how much more effective is the sharing of it when it is done so upon an established foundation of relationship? For indeed, the Christian faith is based upon relationship with God through Jesus Christ.

Pray, this #missionsFriday, that God would grant missionaries favor, in creating and building relationships with the people and cultures in which God has called them to go. Pray that barriers would be broken and walls of kinds would be taken down. May their relationships be well established and doors to people's hearts and minds wide open, ready to receive the good news of Jesus Christ. Pray that God would accomplish the miraculous because of the faith of those who have stepped out in obedience when God called them to go.

For the glory of God
And the cause of Jesus Christ.

- PNC