Just how important are the words we use with children? The Bible makes it clea
r that our tongue is powerful in it’s influence: “The tongue has the power of life and death” (Proverbs 18:21 NIV). Teachers have great influence and can encourage—or discourage—children by what they say and how they say it.
Each week children come into our churches bringing their problems with them. But an encouraging word from a kind teacher may be all a child needs to feel valued and loved by God. Giving children personal attention, listening to them, and using our words to build them up is more valuable than many of the things we concern ourselves with when planning our lessons. It’s good to stop and ask ourselves if we are paying attention to this important aspect of teaching.
Most of us can recall the wonderful teachers in our school days who encouraged us by what they said, and perhaps a few who didn’t—and left us discouraged and doubting ourselves. And while it’s true that children are surprisingly resilient, it’s equally true that they are vulnerable to what they hear—and believe—about themselves. Children who believe disparaging comments from others will have a much harder time that those who have the inner strength to resist such comments and refuse to believe them.
Young people form their concepts of truth, kindness, and respect by observing the behavior of important people in their lives—which certainly includes their teachers. The words we speak, coupled with the example of genuine Christian living, will be a powerful influence in their formative years.
Children will notice a Christlike attitude towards others because it’s a stark contrast to what they see in the in the world today where communication is often harsh and critical. Our students need to experience examples of Christlike behavior and conversation from the adults in their lives. We have the Holy Spirit to guide us in our teaching—and in our conversations! He can help us use the words that will make a difference in our students’ lives!
God bless you today!