Dear Shakuntala and Paritosh,
Wonderful to see you in the courtyard!

Word gives expression to thought. Thought, therefore precedes the Word. Thinking a 'thought' without giving it expression limits its effect -- wholesome or unwholesome as the case may be; its effect is confined to the thinker. When a thought is expressed through speech, it affects all those who receive it. Its effect varies according to the manner and spirit in which the spoken word is received.

Both have their power. Thought is subtle. Sri Ramakrishna speaks about thought, speech, and action. When our speech and actions match with our thoughts, we get the vision of Reality or God.

I would be bold and say that the thought is more powerful than the word. Since it is the thought that gives birth to the word. However the relationship is not that simple. As soon as the thought starts it takes shape in the form of the word (both spoken and unspoken)
In spiritual life if we can channel our thoughts towards the Supreme Goal then we automatically move away from the lower aspects of our being. AS Sri Ramakrishna would say as you move to wards the Eat the West is automatically left behind.
May Mother guide our thoughts towards Her today and always