Words Matter

Understanding the Importance and Impact of Words

Elder Rasband discusses the critical role words play in communication, expressing our beliefs, morals, and perspectives. He highlights that words can be both harmful and healing, and emphasizes that we cannot take back hurtful words once they are spoken.

Words matter! They are the bedrock of how we connect; they represent our beliefs, morals, and perspectives.

Unfortunately, words can be thoughtless, hasty, and hurtful. Once said, we cannot take them back. They can wound, punish, cut down, and even lead to destructive actions.

On the other hand, words can celebrate victory, be hopeful and encouraging. They can prompt us to rethink, reboot, and redirect our course. Words can open our minds to truth.

• Why are words so important in our communication?
• What impact can hurtful words have on others?
• How can positive words influence our thoughts and actions?
• How can you be more mindful of the words you use in your daily conversations?
• Can you recall a time when words have had a significant impact on you, either positively or negatively?
• How can you use words more effectively to express your beliefs, morals, and perspectives?

Valuing the Words of God

Elder Rasband underscores the importance of the Lord's words, stating that they surpass all other expressions. He cites instances from the scriptures where the power and significance of God's words are highlighted.

That is why, first and foremost, the Lord’s words matter.

Believing and heeding the word of God will draw us closer to Him. President Russell M. Nelson has promised, "If you will study His words, your ability to be more like Him will increase."

We "hear Him" in the words of scripture, but do we let them just sit on the page, or do we recognize He is speaking to us? Do we change?

• Why are the Lord's words so important?
• How can studying and heeding the words of God draw us closer to Him?
• What does it mean to "hear Him" in the words of scripture?
• How can you better study and apply the words of God in your life?
• Can you recall a time when the words of God had a profound impact on you?
• How can you better "hear Him" in the words of scripture?

Recognizing the Importance of the Words of Prophets

Elder Rasband emphasizes the significance of the words of prophets, stating that they testify of the divinity of Jesus Christ, teach His gospel, and show His love for all. He also shares a personal experience demonstrating the importance of heeding the prophet's words.

Second, the words of prophets matter.

I bear my witness that our living prophet, President Russell M. Nelson, hears and speaks the word of the Lord.

Words of the prophet matter to the Lord and to us.

• Why are the words of prophets important?
• What is the role of prophets in teaching the gospel of Jesus Christ?
• How did Elder Rasband's personal experience illustrate the significance of heeding the prophet's words?
• How can you better heed the words of the living prophet?
• Can you recall a time when the words of a prophet had a significant impact on your life?
• What steps can you take to better apply the teachings of the prophets in your life?

Reflecting on the Impact of Our Own Words

Elder Rasband discusses the impact of our own words, emphasizing that they can either bring us together or drive a wedge between us. He suggests three phrases to improve our communication: "Thank you", "I am sorry", and "I love you".

Third, and so very important, are our own words. Believe me, in our emoji-filled world, our words matter.

In our families, especially with husbands, wives, and children, our words can bring us together or drive a wedge between us.

Let me suggest three simple phrases that we can use to take the sting out of difficulties and differences, lift, and reassure each other: "Thank you", "I am sorry", and "I love you".

• Why are our own words so important?
• What impact can our words have on our relationships?
• How can the phrases "Thank you", "I am sorry", and "I love you" improve our communication?
• How can you be more mindful of the words you use in your relationships?
• Can you recall a time when your words had a significant impact on someone else?
• How can you incorporate the phrases "Thank you", "I am sorry", and "I love you" more into your daily conversations?

Feasting Upon the Words of Christ

Elder Rasband concludes by encouraging us to feast upon the words of Christ, follow the prophet's words, and be careful with our own words. He promises that doing so will invite the powers of heaven to pour down upon us.

I promise that if we "feast upon the words of Christ" that lead to salvation, our prophet’s words that guide and encourage us, and our own words that speak of who we are and what we hold dear, the powers of heaven will pour down upon us.

"The words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do." We are Heavenly Father’s children and He is our God, and He expects us to speak with "the tongue of angels" by the power of the Holy Ghost.

• What does it mean to "feast upon the words of Christ"?
• How can our words speak of who we are and what we hold dear?
• What does Elder Rasband promise will happen if we follow the words of Christ, heed the prophet's words, and be mindful of our own words?
• How can you better feast upon the words of Christ?
• How do your words reflect who you are and what you hold dear?
• What steps can you take to invite the powers of heaven to pour down upon you?