Have you ever noticed how easy it is to speak negatively? Whether it’s complaining about the weather, criticising a loved one, or doubting our own abilities, negative talk can slip into our conversations without much effort. While it may seem harmless, the impact of our words is far greater than we realise.
Negativity doesn’t need to be taught—it’s a natural tendency. Think of a child: no one teaches them to say “I can’t” or “That’s not fair,” but somehow, it’s often their default. And if we’re honest, many of us carry that same instinct into adulthood. It’s a kind of cultural habit—a "can’t-do" attitude that quietly limits what we believe is possible. The Bible recognises the power of speech and doesn’t shy away from the challenge of controlling it. One particularly passage that comes from the book of James points to the power of our words:
"The tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark." (James 3:5). Words, like sparks, can cause enormous damage. A careless comment can hurt deeply. A repeated complaint can wear down morale. Even a well-meant criticism, if timed poorly, can do more harm than good.
There’s a story about Albert Einstein. One day, he wrote out a list of multiplication tables for his students. At the end, he made one deliberate mistake. His students laughed. He calmly responded, “Despite the fact that I got nine problems right, no one congratulated me. But when I got one wrong, everyone noticed. That’s how the world is.” Einstein’s point still rings true: society is quick to highlight errors and slow to celebrate effort. And often, we do the same with ourselves and others. This focus on the negative can keep us from stepping into new things, trying again, or encouraging those around us.
So, what’s the alternative? In Christian faith, we’re invited to a different way of speaking—a way shaped by hope, grace, and truth. Rather than tear down, we are called to build up. Rather than curse, to bless. Our words should reflect the life Jesus came to give: not just survival, but “life in abundance.”
As a follower of Jesus, as a human being, I know I don’t and can’t always get this right, but I don’t give up trying to follow that example. I imagine a community where people look for the good in each other, call out potential instead of problems, and use their words to bring peace instead of pain. That kind of transformation doesn’t come through sheer willpower—it comes from a change of heart.
And it starts with the words we choose today.
