Have you ever had moments when your words have gotten the better of you?
Maybe you knew how much something would hurt, but you said it anyway because it felt good in the moment. Maybe you’re fighting a habit of complaining or yelling, when you really want to be a person who speaks with kindness and patience. Or maybe you stay silent because you’re never quite sure what to say. Whatever your “maybe” may be, you are in the right place. As a wife, mom, and the creator of the popular Modern Farmhouse Family Instagram, Sarah Molitor has learned firsthand that yes, words can hurt—but they can also help and heal.
In Well Said, she uses authentic, relatable stories paired with Biblical truth to help readersUse their words to create grace-filled, positive relationshipsDevelop a healthy, balanced approach to social media (and find their wisdom filter)Feel equipped to use words to forgive and reconcile differences so they can live freely and fully . . . and so much more.Well Said helps you explore what it means to speak words that direct you to the very heart of Jesus. Sarah will be the trusted friend who walks alongside you, encouraging you to discover God’s true desire for the words we speak every day.
I had high hopes for this book. It seemed just a big pep talk with personal anecdotes from the authors life to keep it interesting. Although I did get some ideas of how to speak more kindly and use my words to build others, or how she said often, speak life into someone. Skimmed through the last half of the book as it seemed somewhat repetitive.
I realized about 2/3 of the way through this book that I was not the intended audience. Turns out, while I am a wordy person, I don't struggle with my words like the author does, so I couldn't relate to a lot of this or find much practical advice. Overall, the book just felt very surface-level. I kept expecting a more academic or theological perspective, but it just barely scratched the surface of so many different topics. And it felt like we were constantly jumping from one topic to another without finishing a full thought. The social media chapter seemed misplaced in this book. Sure, our words matter on social media. 100%. But then it digressed into why the author shares on social media, and a bunch of tips for if you want to start your own "platform." It didn't seem to fit with the rest of the book. And honestly I got tired of hearing about Tim. 😂 I don't think wives should speak poorly about their husbands but everything was SO perfect and SO wonderful about Tim. It was a lot. (And I don't say that with a cynical attitude, because I too have an amazing husband. It just felt like a distraction.)
How many of us struggle with speaking kindly, using our tongues wisely?! Surely I'm not the only one! Actually, now I know I'm not, because Sarah freely shares her own experiences in this book.
I found this book to be such an encouragement and challenge. Sarah Molitor has a way of writing that makes you feel as though you're having a face-to-face conversation with her. (I follow her on instagram @modernfarmhousefamily, and have been encouraged many times) I really appreciate the way she opened herself up and shared her experiences so that readers can learn what she learned. Speaking well is something that I definitely need to learn, and I am grateful for a chance to read this book. Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Sarah is one of my fav Instagram accounts so when she put a book out, I couldn’t wait to dive in. I actually ended up listening on audio because Sarah is the narrator and it was lovely. Well Said is about the importance of our words and how to use them in a kind way to lift others up. After following Sarah for a number of years, it really helped while reading it, because I see how kind, faithful and full of joy she is. Hearing through the book how she has struggled with how she used words, patience and a temper, really opened my eyes to how words can be healing or hurtful and how we can change. Would definitely recommend to anyone who enjoys Sarah and her Instagram page and wants a helpful book filled with scripture and practical application.
Well Said was kind of a mixed read for me. I really appreciated Sarah Molitor’s heart behind the message and her desire to help us use our words in a way that honors God. The overall message is rooted in truth. There were definitely a few reminders that made me think about how I can be more intentional and speak life into others, and I’m glad I walked away with those.
But overall, the book felt pretty repetitive. A lot of the chapters blended together, and I kept waiting for something a little deeper or more spiritually challenging. I liked the message, but it did not feel as impactful or eye-opening as I hoped it would be.
I didn’t realize this was written by an “influencer” when I started the audiobook (and maybe wouldn’t have read it then?) But it ended up being such a simple & encouraging word each day. Nothing overly profound but reminders I needed as someone who likes to talk a little too much!
This is a great book about the power of words. I had no prior knowledge of the author or her social media platform when I started this book. She speaks to a more specific audience of those much like herself, wives and mothers. Of course there are nuggets anyone can glean from a book like this, but she uses examples from marriage and parenting so just a heads up if that’s not your life stage.
I appreciate the authors dedication to the scriptures and the overarching mission of teaching others for Jesus.
I try not to rate books I don't finish, but I did about 3/4 of it so I will. This was recommended to me, so I went further into it than I normally would a book I wasn't enjoying, however, I can't bring myself to finish it.
I feel like she kept building up to something that never came. I flipped forward through the book to see if it seemed more came, but from quick glance it appeared to be mostly the same stuff. I found it repeative and basic. I don't feel like I have any real takeaways.
This book had a handful of helpful tips on how to watch what you say and speak encouraging words, but every chapter was too long and more anecdotal than practical.
I won’t lie, I dreaded picking up another self help book, but i think it was really important for me to read. I listened to the audiobook, but I hope to get a paper copy to reference back to. I recommend audio as you can kind of sift through if there are chapters that more resonate with you. In life circumstances, I’m realizing how much I need to be changed and God used this book to help me see how to change my words. Practical advice, tools, and prayers I will be using. Would recommend to all, especially parents.
My notes and quotes:
“Totally equipped to flourish, but acting helpless.”
“In the same easy way we talk about those we love, we should be able to recognize the goodness that God hand designed and tucked into our own hearts. Your jar needs to have something in it before you can pour out of it into others. Empty won’t fill someone else.”
Mommy timeout - take two minutes to pray and refocus your words
Proverbs 22:11
Ask for motivation to speak life and pruning parts of heart that do not
2 minute power words - practice encouraging someone
Wielding our words to elicit a certain response from someone else is a scary thing bc it’s neither healthy or sustainable
Is it honoring to God and honoring to others?
Practice conversations with the kids - use different voices and names
Birthday letters: 1. Celebrating my child and listing favorites 2. Gifting and talents and how the lord will use them in special way 3. Few more words of encouragement and how much we love them Read them out loud 🩵
“You are loved for the boys you are, the men you will become, and the precious sons you will always be”
Proverbs 15:1
Heart check - “not bc God is condemning us, he is not a condemning God. But because got may be revealing a piece of us that he wants to replace with his heart for others. Then we can move forward in the good things he has for us and not be held up by our own sin. His motivations and love are pure. Ours aren’t always.” “Lord, thank you so much for your good gift of communication. You are the word and you created words to glorify you and speak life to others. It’s a big gift lord and I know it comes with big responsibility. Will you help me use this precious gift responsibly and in a way that honors you and honors others?forgive me for a time I have spoken to someone out of my own motivations to correct or conform them. My way is not always the right way. But your way is. Help me be as gracious when speaking to others as you are to me. Thank you Jesus for giving me wisdom and helping me.”
Before you speak, THINK: True Helpful Inspiring Necessary Kind James 1:5 Where: “Waiting for the right time and place to have a conversation does two things - it builds trust between us and our children and it builds patience in us as parents so we respond well and don’t just react.” Why: “If our why doesn’t line up with Jesus’s why, which is his love for people, the what we want to say probably isn’t as important as we think it is.” How: discernment
Faithful yes to a faithful God
“No need for a do over. Instead aim to do better. Ask for forgiveness and for God to redeem your words. And then move forward in grace.”
I really enjoyed this book. I found it to be very practical, filled with great insight and application that is steeped in God's Word. I love how encouraging Sarah's words were and that many of her personal examples were relatable. Also, we know that words are significant and hold weight, but I never really grasped the full impact of how powerful God has made words until I read this book, which is crazy, considering words are my biggest love language, ha. Overall, this book, backed by scripture, is a great challenge to the reader in improving how to use their words daily within and outside their home so that they can impact those around them and leave a legacy through their speech.
“well said*” is exactly what I needed to hear. The Lord convicted me in the use of my words daily. The way I spoke to my boys, how I spoke to and about my husband, the jokes I made - I was not speaking “bad” of any of these things, but was it necessary? What it kind and loving? Were my words FULL of truth and grace? No. The Lord continues to work on taking my tongue (and probably will my entire life), but Sarah writes in a way that she is right next to you cheering you on, but also being bold in truth. Definitely recommend!
This book was an easy read. Practical, helpful, and convicting. I would recommend it for someone who (like myself) struggles to tame their tongue.
I give it only 3 stars because it was a bit repetitive, but then again, sometimes repetition is what we need to make something stick. It took me a long time to finish because it’s not the most engaging book, but I am glad to have read it and may use it or certain sections to encourage others in the future.
This book is a must read! You’ll want to gather a group of gals to read this book together! Sarah practically explains how we can use our words to encourage others. As a mom of three littles, it’s so easy for me to let hurtful words come out of my mouth in a moment of frustration. This is a book I will be referring back to over and over again!
Rarely do I find a Christian book that is so helpful. Convicting and also God centered. I know I have troubles with my words. And everything Sarah struggles with is something I struggle with. It’s refreshing and encouraging to read how she worked through her bad habits and behaviors and works hard to use her words to glorify God. Good stuff.
A great book about the power of words and the value of choosing how and when to use them - always a good reminder for those of us who sometimes speak first and think later. Woven into stories of faith and family. I love Sarah’s encouraging presence on social media and really enjoyed reading her book.
Interesting listen to see the author's opinion on how changing how she spoke to others changed her life, her marriage, and her relationships. Lots of great points to keep in mind when having conversations with other's and realizing that sometimes it is about you and not about them and to remember that.
This has been such a wonderful book! Sarah speaks from her heart! She shares testimonies of personal life experiences and how God walked her through to help use her words better! Very encouraging and inspiring! Can resonate with her and what she shares!
I have read several books that give similar advice. What I love about this one is that alongside the advice, Sarah gives tons of examples of good and bad communication from her own life with her spouse and kids that I could totally relate to.
I did not expect this to be a 5 star read. I have been in a reading slump, and I wasn't sure what to expect with this book. I am leaving the book feeling encouraged going forward in how I exist among others. I look forward to coming back to this book again in the future.
Sarah Molitor read the book for audible, it was like listening to a friend. I love her advice and a reminder of how important our words (or what we don't say) are to God. By God's grace she is so wise and discerning. Definitely would recommend to anyone!
3.5 ⭐ I wasn't aware the author was an influencer and a self proclaimed chatter box, so I didn't connect on that level with her, but I thought she had some good biblical wisdom to share and appreciated her words.
I had to dig deep to have some usable takeaways from this book. No more “influencers” in my reading list for a while. Most of the points were simple and predictable Bible lessons, but the topic - using your words more gently and intentionally- was worth sifting through the platitudes.
Refreshingly transparent and incredibly practical, this book will challenge you to be more intentional with growing your speaking and listening skills while cultivating a heart of worship toward the One who fearfully and wonderfully made you.
3.5 Rounded to 4. Pros- I loved the scripture in the book and how she made it applicable to life bow. Her anecdotes where relatable and I’m glad she didn’t paint herself as “perfect”
Cons- I wanted more tangible ideas on how to change behaviors.
INCREDIBLE. Hands down a great read that leaves you with many thoughts, and beautiful conviction where needed, if needed. With great prayers at the end of the book with encouragement nuggets to take with you!
I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Sarah’s story and lessons. It opened my eyes and forced me to take a long look inward and how I am speaking, not only to my spouse and kids, but others as well.