Writing is challenging and enjoyable for me. It’s challenging to write something that invokes pleasure, introspection, or even drawing the proverbial line in the sand. Crafting words that grip the imagination or capture attention is akin to painting a picture, and the creative process is both enjoyable and fulfilling.

I love writing, not so much academic endeavors like research papers or reports as writing to inspire or encourage. Because words have such power, they have been one of the best tools in my toolbox.

Over the years, I’ve written for several newspapers and an online magazine. I’m grateful for the publishers allowing me to share every week. Six years ago, my first and only book was published (although I hope to remedy that one-book-wonder soon).

Based on my experience as a writer and a preacher who is always crafting a sermon, here’s an essential thought that every writer, communicator, husband, wife, parent, and politician must know: words matter. Before you even consider tone, attitude, or demeanor, words matter.

To speak truth or write clearly means that words matter. This means I must choose the words I use carefully. Not only do I need to have a good understanding of my own words, but I also need to be cognizant of how my readers or listeners hear them.

Words change meanings over time. Contemporary slang uses words in different ways. Case in point: have you ever heard the phrase “no cap?” To my listening ears, that means you don’t have a cap with you—and maybe the sun is out, and you need one. But, to a specific demographic, “no cap” means no lie.

Go figure. No, on second thought, don’t. You might spin your wheels for a while trying to understand how we got there or not.

This is to say that no matter your profession or role in life, it pays to be word-conscious and mindful of how you use words. Your words can tear down or build up.

Finally, the question might be, how do you want to be remembered? As an encourager or a discourager? Do you want to be seen as a positive-Paul or a negative-Nellie? (No offense to any Nellies out there).

“Kind words are like honey— sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.” (Proverbs‬ 16‬:24‬ NLT‬)

Choose your words wisely—with them, you have great power.

Les Ferguson Jr. grew up in Vicksburg and is a 1980 graduate of Warren Central High School. He holds a B.A. in Bible from Magnolia Bible College and an M.A. in New Testament Preaching from Johnson University. He lives and ministers in Oxford, Miss., and is the author of “Still Wrestling—Faith Renewed through Brokenness.” He can be reached at lfergusonjr@gmail.com.