Three phrases I strive to use carefully are: “I love you,” “I hate you,” and “God said.” Growing up in church, I often heard the phrase “God said” used repeatedly. Sometimes it was accepted without question, but other times it raised skepticism: Was it truly God speaking?
Similarly, I’ve heard the words “I love you” spoken often, but they, too, made me question: Is it real? Do they truly mean it? Unlike the phrase “God said,” “I love you” carries an emotional weight—a vulnerability that can inspire trust or, when used carelessly, create wounds.
Then there’s “I hate you.” Though it seems more straightforward, its impact can linger far longer than intended. Hate, when spoken in anger or frustration, has the power to undo relationships, break trust, and sow division where healing is needed.
Not all of these phrases carry the same type of weight, but each holds the potential to influence lives in profound ways. Of them all, “God said” carries the heaviest responsibility. As believers and practitioners of the Good News, we have a sacred duty to ensure we speak only what we are certain is from God. Misrepresenting His voice is not just careless—it’s dangerous. It can mislead, confuse, and harm those who trust us to convey truth. This is not an area where guessing or leaning on personal judgment is acceptable.
At the same time, “I love you” and “I hate you” are not without consequence. Love, when expressed authentically, can heal and uplift, but when spoken without sincerity, it can breed distrust. Hate, when spoken in anger, can break down years of progress in relationships or even within oneself.
Our words have power. Each phrase—“I love you,” “I hate you,” and “God said”—has its own weight and responsibility. Let us choose our words wisely, understanding the profound effect they can have on those who hear them.
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