My time as a pastor has taught me that the human soul is fragile. If we can be affected by reading something online about someone we have never met, how much more are we impacted by the words and actions of those we know and love or by the thoughts we repeat over and over again to ourselves? This is why it’s vitally important to be intentional in our communication and speak to our own souls and to others with words that agree with God’s Spirit. 

Jesus used His words carefully and His actions were always in alignment with what He said. He spoke with purpose and didn’t open His mouth when there wasn’t a reason to. He also didn’t tear Himself or others down, but affirmed His own worth by pursuing moments of rest and solitude and by seeking times of intentional fellowship and community with His disciples. In short, He took care of His soul and He taught us to do the same. 

My friend, if I can encourage you to do anything in this new year, I ask you to tend to your own soul so you can be a source of life to the souls of those you care about. Resolve to speak gently and kindly to yourself and meditate on Scriptures that remind you of how much you are loved by your Lord and Savior. Silence negative and destructive self-talk, counter it with His Word, and live as a source of grace and compassion that infuses life into the hearts and spirits of your friends and family. The world is harsh, but His still small voice working in and through you can counter the noise and bring peace that crushes the enemy’s discouragement.