One Little Word Karen Jordan |
I posted a comment on my friend’s blog recently, after I read her inspiriting article, “Empty Hearts and
Lives are Waiting.” But after Julie approved my comment for her blog, I noticed a big typo (a major
problem for a writer.)
Instead of the word “power,” I had typed “poser”—just a minor mistake for sure. But my tiny error
distorted the entire significance of this scripture. “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that
this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NIV).
One little word shifted my focus and the potential attention of my readers. All I could see was my
mistake, and I lost sight of the message and power of God’s Word. And my readers may have missed
the entire point of my comment.
How many times do we let one little word spoil things for us? Whether we speak a single word of
profanity in the heat of an argument, or we whisper a little white lie as we try to cover up a mistake—we
often regret the unexpected consequences that result from our words. One negative or careless thought
caused by frustration or anger can blind us from seeing God’s blessings in a situation.
As a writer, I cringe when I discover one insignificant word choice that turns a powerful point into a
grammatical disaster. I’ve also witnessed a simple offensive religious term repel an audience of would-be
readers.
As a writing instructor, I notice many writers resisting the editing process. They focus on the goal of
finishing their writing task, instead of fine-tuning their grammar and mechanics. They get offended if
anyone calls attention to one tiny mistake or unclear point, or someone suggests meaningful change.
Then, they get angry or depressed when they receive a lower grade for their work, or the piece is
rejected for publication.
As a Christian, I’ve also experienced the power of God’s Word. One word of encouragement can pull
me out of the deepest pit of despair. A single promise from God’s Word can offer hope to me, when my
circumstances seem overwhelming. My simple confession of faith can produce peace in my heart and
mind that “transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
So, does one little word matter? God’s Word answers this question. “In the beginning was the Word, and
the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).
Lives are Waiting.” But after Julie approved my comment for her blog, I noticed a big typo (a major
problem for a writer.)
Instead of the word “power,” I had typed “poser”—just a minor mistake for sure. But my tiny error
distorted the entire significance of this scripture. “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that
this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us” (2 Corinthians 4:7 NIV).
One little word shifted my focus and the potential attention of my readers. All I could see was my
mistake, and I lost sight of the message and power of God’s Word. And my readers may have missed
the entire point of my comment.
How many times do we let one little word spoil things for us? Whether we speak a single word of
profanity in the heat of an argument, or we whisper a little white lie as we try to cover up a mistake—we
often regret the unexpected consequences that result from our words. One negative or careless thought
caused by frustration or anger can blind us from seeing God’s blessings in a situation.
As a writer, I cringe when I discover one insignificant word choice that turns a powerful point into a
grammatical disaster. I’ve also witnessed a simple offensive religious term repel an audience of would-be
readers.
As a writing instructor, I notice many writers resisting the editing process. They focus on the goal of
finishing their writing task, instead of fine-tuning their grammar and mechanics. They get offended if
anyone calls attention to one tiny mistake or unclear point, or someone suggests meaningful change.
Then, they get angry or depressed when they receive a lower grade for their work, or the piece is
rejected for publication.
As a Christian, I’ve also experienced the power of God’s Word. One word of encouragement can pull
me out of the deepest pit of despair. A single promise from God’s Word can offer hope to me, when my
circumstances seem overwhelming. My simple confession of faith can produce peace in my heart and
mind that “transcends all understanding” (Philippians 4:7).
So, does one little word matter? God’s Word answers this question. “In the beginning was the Word, and
the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1).
Karen Jordan, professional and technical writer, addresses topics about her
faith, family, and writing. Karen and her husband, Dan, live in Arkansas.
They have two married children and six grandchildren. Find Karen’s
website, blog and examiner.com posts at www.karenjordan.net.
faith, family, and writing. Karen and her husband, Dan, live in Arkansas.
They have two married children and six grandchildren. Find Karen’s
website, blog and examiner.com posts at www.karenjordan.net.
© 2009 Karen Jordan. All rights reserved.
Photo © Simone Van Den Berg | Dreamstime.com