Words Matter: Choosing Healing Language in an Era of Discouragement

Words That Heal: Three Takeaways from Episode 138 of “To Be Encouraged”

In a world often shaped by conflict and negativity, finding ways to lift spirits and encourage one another is more vital than ever. The latest episode of the "To Be Encouraged" podcast, hosted by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller with Bishop Julius C. Trimble, dives deeply into the transformative power of words—their potential both to wound and to mend. Their conversation uncovers valuable wisdom about speaking healing words into a discouraged world.

1. Words Are Seeds: Plant Carefully

The episode opens with Bishop Trimble’s reflections from a recent book signing with 91-year-old author Mrs. June Porter, who reminded everyone that the words we speak around children are “like seeds being planted in fertile soil.” This analogy, echoed throughout the discussion, highlights how word choices—affirming or destructive—help shape not only children, but the adults they become. Both hosts stress that experiences of bullying or careless speech leave indelible marks, while words of encouragement and love forge resilience and hope that last a lifetime. As Bishop Trimble notes, words can “build up or tear down.” The lesson: choose to plant words of kindness and affirmation, not only in the lives of children but in every encounter we have.

2. Overcoming Fear with Understanding and Affirmation

A recurring theme this episode is how fear is amplified or diminished by the words we use. Bishop Trimble references Marie Curie: “Now is the time to understand more so that we may fear less.” In today’s social and geopolitical landscape, language is often weaponized—to create an “us versus them” mentality or to escalate conflict. Instead, the podcast suggests intentionally using words that inform, affirm, and foster connection. Rev. Dr. Miller expands on this by referencing biblical concepts—how perfect love casts out fear (1 John 4) and how the benediction in Numbers 6 offers blessings and peace as antidotes to division. Being intentional with our speech, especially in tough conversations or environments rife with negativity, is a crucial discipline for anyone seeking to uplift others.

3. Practice Affirmation—For Others and Yourself

Perhaps the most actionable takeaway comes near the episode’s close: practice daily affirmation. Bishop Trimble shares simple, yet powerful, strategies such as speaking words of appreciation to others (“I appreciate you”; “Let’s work together”) and even saying “I love you” to oneself in the mirror every morning. Writing down affirming words about others—and then about yourself—helps foster a positive mindset and builds inner strength to resist negativity. The episode encourages listeners to take these practices public, too: as Bishop Trimble notes, his wife sometimes gives her name as “Joy” when ordering coffee, just to hear that uplifting word spoken aloud.

Final Thoughts

As Bishop Trimble’s personal mission makes clear, the goal is “to encourage all people with the love of Jesus Christ to rise to their highest potential.” Whether you’re a pastor, public servant, parent, or friend, let this episode remind you—your words matter. If we speak and share words that heal, not hurt, we help create the kind of world we all want to live in.

Listen to the full episode of "To Be Encouraged" for more insights and practical encouragement for living—one word at a time.