We’ve all had moments when a few simple words stuck with us for years. Sometimes because they built us up, and sometimes because they tore us down. Words have power. They can strengthen a marriage, deepen a friendship, inspire a child, and even change the path of someone’s life.
The Bible tells us to make sure everything we say is “good and helpful, so that [our] words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4:29). But what does that look like in our everyday lives?
It comes down to three types of words everyone longs to hear—and when we choose to speak them, they have the power to bring life into every relationship.
3 Things Everyone Needs to Hear
Before Jesus began his public ministry, he got baptized—and God spoke these words over him:
“You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.” Mark 1:11 NIV
In that one sentence, Jesus received words of acceptance, affection, and affirmation. If Jesus needed to hear these, we can be sure the people in our lives need to hear them too!
Words of Acceptance
“You are my son” - You belong.
Words of acceptance communicate, “You’re safe with me. You’re mine no matter what.” It tells someone they belong even when they’ve messed up.
When someone makes a mistake, it’s easy for them to wonder if they’re still accepted. That’s why moments of failure can be some of the most crucial times to reassure someone they still matter to you. You can address what went wrong without making them question your commitment to them.
Words of acceptance can sound like:
- “I’m so grateful I get to be your parent.”
- “I’d choose you again—every time.”
- “I’m proud to call you my friend.”
Acceptance builds trust. It creates a foundation of safety where relationships can grow deeper and stronger.
Words of Affection
“Whom I dearly love” - You are loved.
Affection is love expressed out loud. It’s not enough to assume people know we care—they need to hear it. Too many relationships suffer from what could be called “affection starvation.”
If you grew up in a home where “I love you” wasn’t said often, it may feel unnatural to say it now. But you have the opportunity to break that cycle. Love spoken consistently changes lives.
Words of affection can be saying things like:
- “I love you.” (Don’t underestimate this one!)
- “I love how thoughtful you are.”
- “I love the way you make people feel included.”
Affection strengthens emotional connection and reassures people that they’re more than just accepted—they're cherished.
Words of Affirmation
“With you I am well pleased” - You make a difference.
Our world is quick to point out faults and failures. Words of affirmation push back against that by calling out the good. Affirmation notices what someone is doing well and who they are becoming. It’s the voice that says, “I see you. I notice your effort. You matter.”
Here are some examples of words of affirmation:
- “I’m proud of you for how you handled that situation.”
- “Thank you for all you do for our family.”
- “I can see you growing into such a wise and caring leader.”
Nobody has ever gone to counseling because they received too much encouragement. When affirmation becomes the culture in your home, friendships, and workplace, people thrive.
➡️ Words of affirmation are one of 5 ways people receive love. Check out this Bible Reading Plan on the 5 Love Langauges and how to get better at expressing them to the people you care about.
The Ripple Effect of Life-Giving Words
Your words shape the people around you for better or worse. A timely encouragement can help someone keep going when they’re ready to give up. A sincere “You’re doing great” can motivate a child to try again.
And it’s not just about the words you speak. The words you receive matter just as much. If you’ve been hurt by destructive words or left longing for acceptance, affection, and affirmation, know this: your Heavenly Father speaks them over you right now.
He says:
A Final Word to Carry With You
Imagine what could happen if we all made the daily choice to speak acceptance, affection, and affirmation. Marriages would grow stronger. Kids would walk taller. Workplaces would feel more supportive. Friendships would deepen.
So, this week, ask yourself:
- Who in my life needs to hear that they belong?
- Who needs to know they are deeply loved?
- Who could I encourage with a reminder that they make a difference?
Your words have more weight than you realize. Use them to build up—and watch the people around you come to life.
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Proverbs says those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Here’s how to make sure your words lead to positive consequences!
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