Speech Writing (#233 of 365+)

The President of the United States is in a position of immense power and influence. The President’s speechwriter, members of the President’s staff—even the President himself—will
painstakingly pore over every detail of every speech. Carelessness could adversely affect consumer spending or create discord between nations. But the right words can strengthen a nation and inspire future generations.

“I believe that I interpret the will of the Congress and of the people when I assert that we will not only defend ourselves to the uttermost but will make it very certain that this form of treachery shall never again endanger us.

Hostilities exist. There is no blinking at the fact that our people, our territory and our interests are in grave danger.

With confidence in our armed forces, with the unbounding determination of our people, we will gain the inevitable triumph. So help us God.” (Franklin D. Roosevelt – December 8, 1941)

Joni said if the President has to choose his words so carefully imagine how much thought the Holy Spirit put into the influential and eternal Word of God. We can have confidence that every single verb, adverb, noun, adjective, and pronoun was breathed into existence by God himself.

“And the words of the LORD are flawless, like silver refined in a furnace of clay, purified seven times” (Psalm 12:6)

She also said believers should have reverence for God in the way we speak to others and to him in prayer. Our words might not have as much weight as a presidential speech, but we represent our Savior and we all have a circle of influence that we will impact—either positively or negatively—for Christ. And, in the matter of prayer, we should never be flippant or half-hearted when speaking to the Lord. I mean, God already knows what’s on our hearts and minds before we say a word, but that doesn’t negate the need to give serious thought to what we’re going to say to him. The God of the universe draws near and listens very closely to those who are his. He cares that much.

“If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God” (1 Peter 4:11)

Lord, thank you for hearing all my prayers. May I put more time and effort into preparing myself for a productive quiet time with you. Not just so I can choose the right words but because I want to be a better listener to what you’re saying to me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.