Ephesians 4:29 “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.”
If you are like me, there have been several times in my life where I have spoken, texted or emailed without considering what the repercussions of my words might entail. I didn't think through my intent and how it was going to be received and I suffered because of it. Our words are powerful and must be chosen carefully, keeping in mind who the listener is and how the message will be taken. More often than not I don't think that we set out to hurt but when we respond or act in haste without relying on the Holy Spirit for guidance and direction we set ourselves up for failure and regret.
Ephesians 4:29 encompasses quite a lot of soul searching and is a good reminder that what comes out of our mouths truly matters. The following are a few things to think about before we open our mouths to speak, sit down to write a text or send an email.
Is it necessary to say or write anything?
Is it true?
Will what I have to say or write build the other person up?
Is the way I plan to say something or write it appropriate or should I find another way to respond?
Am I thinking about how the other person will receive what I have to say or write.
If we have a check in our spirit about any of these questions then it is best to reconsider what we are about to say or write. Our words can be full of grace and love but they can also cut to the quick and cause irrefutable harm. As followers of Jesus Christ we must be all about our relationship with the Lord and building relationships with others so that He can use us to impact their lives for the Kingdom so, yes, our choice of words matter.
Today's Challenge: Are my words a means of grace?
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Personalize this prayer.
Dear Lord,
Help me to be ever mindful of what I am about to say so that in the end, I can be a blessing and not a hindrance to the Kingdom of Christ. May the words of my mouth please You and edify those that are listening. May they prove to be helpful and not damaging. Give me wisdom and an understanding of the ones I am speaking to before anything ever leaves my mouth or finds it's way on social media. I want to set out to glorify You in everything I say and do as I realize that I am to be an ambassador for the Kingdom. May Your will be done in each and every circumstance in my life.
In Jesus Name,
Amen
Psalm 19:14 “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.
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