Words Do Things

Jesus answered them, “Isn’t it written in your scripture that God said, ‘You are gods?’”

– John 10:34  (referencing Psalm 82:6)

It is a serious thing to live in a society of possible gods and goddesses.

The dullest most uninteresting person you can talk to may one day be a creature which, if you saw it now, you would be strongly tempted to worship, or else a horror and a corruption such as [in a nightmare].

All day long we are […] helping each other to one or the other of these destinations. [In light of this, it is with awe] that we should conduct all of our dealings with one another.

There are no ordinary people. You have never talked to a mere mortal.

– C.S. Lewis, The Weight of Glory

To parent is to steward the creation of other human beings. And this primarily by our words.

Scripture tells us God created the universe with the spoken word. And that we are made in His image to do similar things!

Science confirms, while you and I cannot speak matter into existence, our words do indeed give life to realities.

Around the world right now academics are studying “speech-act theory,” and “theology of the word.” Both of these examine how God speaks with His actions, creates realities with His words, and how we do the same.

This principle is why Sarah and I – when we slip up and are careless – will privately remind each other to be more careful with our words. Often it comes with the need to apologize to one of our children. And clarify to any others who overheard.

There is a world of difference between saying: “Your behavior is causing pain right now.” – versus, “You are being a pain!”

Similarly, we often overhear parents verbalizing their parenting struggles to others – unintentionally communicating how their child has been an inconvenience and a dark spot in their otherwise cheerful week. Meanwhile, their toddler is right at their side – looking up at them. Taking it all in. Their soul being shaped.

The parent didn’t think they were parenting. But that child’s heart was being rent and then calloused in that moment. That parent will wonder what went wrong in the teen years.

You are like a god to your children. God made you to be such.
Choose to speak beauty and redemption into existence.