Words
There are approximately 600,000 words in the English language. The average American has a “use” vocabulary of about 10,000 words, and a “recognition” vocabulary of some 35,000 words. When a youngster enters the first grade, he/she might have a personal vocabulary of about 3000 words, which may expand to more than ten times that upon graduation from college.
These things being true, it seems strange to suggest that one can be articulate with a 21-word vocabulary. Nevertheless, there are ten sentences, consisting of three words each and utilizing a total of twenty-one words, which provide some of the most appropriate vocabulary in our language:
I love you.
I thank you.
May I help you?
I understand you.
I was wrong.
I will pray.
Take your time.
Please forgive me.
You did well.
You look nice.
Learn to speak that language. Conquer that vocabulary. And you will be happier, plus you will be able to communicate in the name of Jesus like you have never before.
Devotedly your pastor,
Bill Blanchard