Week 15 - September 1, 2015

I have read Psalm 145 numerous times this summer—often two or even three times per day. I feel as if I know it quite well and can, if pressed, quote much of it from memory. I love the praise and adoration the Psalmist expressed in his writing of this amazing song. Over and over throughout the verses he extols his Creator. But he is not alone…all creation joins in a veritable symphony of praise. It is one of the most uplifting psalms I have ever had the pleasure to read.

And then you come to verse twenty: “The Lord protects all those who love him, but he destroys the wicked.” (NLT) In my journal I have listed forty-seven different statements made throughout this Psalm. Now here is the surprise: Out of these forty-seven statements, only ONE could be put in a negative category! Isn’t that interesting?

It got me thinking today, and my pondering led me to analyze my own life—the things I think about and, more importantly, the things I SPEAK about. I was left with this question: Like this wonderful Psalm, is MY speech 46/47th’s positive? Do I encourage people at least 46/47th’s of the time? Do 46 out of 47 people leave my presence feeling good about our encounter?

On our RiverChurch Facebook page we’ve been running what Ron calls a #ReMix of a popular sermon series from several years ago. It was called, “Change The Way You Think.” It was a great series. You should consider listening to some of the episodes. A couple of weeks ago the episode was, “Change The Way You Think: About Your Words.” Your words are powerful. You have the ability to change the trajectory of someone’s life just by what you say. Why not give it a try this week as you flow in and out of your circles of influence. Shoot for 46/47th’s positive speech, but expect to exceed that mark.