Author Annie F. Downs invited me along for a Speak Love Revolution: 30 Devotions That Will Change Your World. The challenge explores the effects your words have on your life.
Each day of the challenge included a topic, a Bible verse, few thoughts from the author, a prayer, and a revolt (action item). The challenge started with a letter-- Dear Friend. Just like Jerry Maguire, she had me at hello. Who doesn’t like to be called a friend? Already, her words were changing my life.
The top five topics that made the most impact on me were: Your Words Matter, The Parentals, Brothers and Sisters, Just A Quick Note, and What God Says About You.
Your Words Matter – Day 1
Besides my own words, I realized just how much of what people say, both positively and negatively, can affect your day to day life. The words I’m sorry, I messed up, I’m not enough, I’m grateful felt as though they were endlessly flowing around me this month, either from my mouth or the mouths of others. Sometimes, these words made me feel better, and sometimes these words hurt. Annie notes, “Use your words to give life.” Apologize only when you genuinely mean it. If you are using your words for good, then you shouldn’t be messing up. You are enough-- enough said.
The Parentals – Day 9
Your parents are human. And if you are a parent, guess what? You are human, too. Parents make mistakes, and there will be times when their/your words hurt. My parents would give me the world if they could. Even if they couldn’t give me the world, it doesn’t mean I love them any less. I’m not a parent, but to my friends that are parents, I think you are doing a great job (I say this as a kid). I can see from the love your kids have for you that your words matter to them. The small moments you share with your kids, they remember those long after they are gone. The mistakes are forgiven and forgotten. Keep speaking love.
Brothers and Sisters – Day 13
I have two older sisters. They are two of my favorite people in this world. I couldn’t imagine facing this life without them. These two humans shower me with words of love. Hearing the words, “I’m proud of you” come from their mouths chokes me up every time. Just like your parents, they don’t see the mistakes, they love you for who you are and the person you want to become. They pick you up when you need it the most and protect you from anyone that tries to tear you down. We are an unstoppable team.
Just A Quick Note – Day 25
I have a bag full of letters that my grandfather and grandmother exchanged when he was in the Navy. I’ve only read a few of the letters, but it reminds me just how important putting pen to paper is. Annie states, “A handwritten note is a gift that can impact someone forever.” In just a moment, I wrote a note, shared life, and gave encouragement. As I wrote each of my notes out, I was reminded why this person was in my life, said a prayer for them, and thanked God for their part in my journey. For just 49 cents, you too can share life and give encouragement; what are you waiting for?
What God Says About You – Day 27
My favorite verse, Jeremiah 29:11, was the revolt of the day, so naturally I LOVED day 27! God created words. God loves you, and God has a plan for you. Trust in Him. Have faith in Him. Annie wrote, “Read what God says about you. Digest His words. Believe them. Enjoy them. And know that they are for you." When you start listening to God’s word, you’ll stop listening to others. He speaks love!
Speaking love isn’t a 30-day diet, it’s a lifestyle change. Speak love to those around you and yourself and you’ll see a difference in the world.
*If you would like to join the Speak Love Revolution, visit Annie F. Down’s website: http://www.anniefdowns.com/books/speak-love-revolution/.
