Deaf to the Negative
Deaf to the Negative
The Power of Words
Words have incredible power. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that "The tongue has the power of life and death." What we hear and internalize can either build us up or tear us down.
1. Negative Words from Others
Many of us have been hurt by critical or discouraging words. People may have said, "You’re not good enough," "You’ll never succeed," or "It’s impossible." These words echo in our minds, but we must choose not to let them define us.
David and Goliath
Think about David when he faced Goliath. Before the battle, David encountered negativity from every side. His brother Eliab accused him of arrogance (1 Samuel 17:28). King Saul doubted him, saying, "You are only a boy, and he has been a warrior from his youth" (1 Samuel 17:33). Even Goliath mocked him, calling him a mere shepherd (1 Samuel 17:42-43).
But David didn’t let these negative voices deter him. He declared, "The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine" (1 Samuel 17:37). David was deaf to the negative and tuned into God’s power, and he triumphed over Goliath.
Jesus and Jairus’ Daughter
When Jairus came to Jesus, begging Him to heal his dying daughter, they received devastating news: "Your daughter is dead. Don’t bother the teacher anymore" (Luke 8:49). The crowd’s message was final—death had won.
But Jesus didn’t accept the negativity. He immediately told Jairus, "Don’t be afraid; just believe, and she will be healed" (Luke 8:50). Jesus silenced the doubters and took only a few faithful disciples and the girl’s parents into the room. With the simple words, "My child, get up!" (Luke 8:54), He brought her back to life.
When the world says, “It’s over,” Jesus says, “It’s not over. Believe.”
2. Negative Self-Talk
Sometimes, the negativity doesn’t come from others but from within. We doubt ourselves, saying, "I’m not smart enough," "I’m too broken," or "I’ll never be free."
This is not what God says about you. Isaiah 41:10 reminds us: "Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand."
How to Tune Out the Negative
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Focus on God’s Word
Fill your mind and heart with Scripture. Romans 12:2 encourages us to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. When negativity comes, combat it with God’s promises. -
Surround Yourself with Encouragers
Proverbs 13:20 says, "Walk with the wise and become wise." Surround yourself with people who speak life, not death, into your situation. -
Speak Life Over Yourself and Others
Be intentional about speaking words of faith, hope, and love. Proverbs 16:24 reminds us, "Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones." -
Pray Without Ceasing
Take your worries and fears to God. Philippians 4:6-7 says that when we pray with thanksgiving, God’s peace will guard our hearts and minds.
Conclusion
As we go into the week, let’s make a conscious decision to become deaf to the negative and tuned into God’s truth. Let us follow the examples of:
- David, who ignored the doubters and trusted God’s power.
- Jairus, who chose faith in Jesus over fear and saw his daughter live again.
- And most importantly, Jesus, who never let the noise of the crowd distract Him from fulfilling the Father’s will.
Remember Philippians 4:8—focus on what is noble, pure, and praiseworthy. Rise above the negativity, stand firm in faith, and live the abundant life Jesus promised.
Amen.

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