Words Do Matter

 

 Words of Affirmation - words that communicate to another person they are appreciated, supported, and loved.

Words of Affirmation are words that build up. Mark Twain said it this way: “I can live for two months on a good compliment.”

WHY WORDS OF AFFIRMATION ARE IMPORTANT

If your child, friend, or spouse has Words of Affirmation as one of their love languages, then it is critical to learn how and when to share Words of Affirmation.

These words can be expressed through both spoken and written words. An “I Love You” text or note has just as a big impact as words spoken.

HOW WORDS OF AFFIRMATION CAN HELP YOUR RELATIONSHIPS

Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction. The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”        Proverbs 18:20-21 (NLT)

Obviously, Words of Affirmation are very impactful.

It is important to realize that harsh, cruel, mean words spoken to a person who has the love language of Words of Affirmation are especially destructive.  Words can bring life or death.  

WHAT ARE SOME EXAMPLES OF WORDS OF AFFIRMATION?

Here are just a few examples of Words of Affirmation:

  • I love you more than you can imagine.

  • I am so thankful for you.

  • I am blessed to have you in my life.

  • My life is better because of you.

HOW TO PUT WORDS OF AFFIRMATION INTO MOTION

It’s really pretty great!  Providing someone you love with Words of Affirmation is free and costs nothing. If Words of Affirmation are not your love language, you might not realize how important and meaningful it is for you to affirm your spouse, child or friend  through your words.

Remember--by learning how to express affirming words of love, you are learning how to show love in a way that communicates to them.


FINAL THOUGHTS

Basically, all the five love languages come down to expressing appreciation, support, and love.

Words of Affirmation are inexpensive from a cost viewpoint but are incredibly valuable to the other person when said authentically and honestly.

This simple gesture of Words of Affirmation will share your love with them.

Here are two final Bible verse to remind us of the power of Words of Affirmation:

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:2a (NIV)

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” Proverbs 25:11 (ESV)

Dr. John Gerlach