Ephesians 4:29-32…

“…Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear. Do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you.“

~Ephesians 4:29-32

It is said that people form opinions of us by our words. Now this can mean everything from the vocabulary we use to the way we act or react in certain situations…

But there are some who do not think about such things as rumors, gossip, or even judgmental statements which often cause divisiveness. Indeed, these words can cause as much or more damage than we know to others, as well as, ourselves.

Often times, a person may be driven out of a social group or a personal friendship because they were hurt by our words. It is certain that a number of Christians are hesitant to go to church services because of things which have been said to them or about them.

Brothers and sisters, the Lord God cautioned us in the use of our words for good reason. He knows the damage which can be inflicted on human emotions by the misuse of our words. Too, if we are speaking of things such as anger and making slanderous remarks, it is an indication that our own hearts are not where they should be!

Therefore, although the tongue may be a difficult thing to master, we must always keep training our hearts in the ways of the Lord. If we are centering our minds on Christ’s love, we will find it easier to speak with thoughtful, helpful, and encouraging words. We will be pleasing God by building others up instead of tearing them down.

Positive words help to create and reinforce fellowships among believers and may help motivate the unbeliever to come to Christ Jesus. And such words will go a long way towards making all fellow worshippers in our churches feel welcome and willing to be there to give God the praise He most richly deserves!

So, before we let our words out, let us look inward to make sure they are wholesome and edifying. Make them sincerely meant to encourage and build up others who are both inside and outside the body of Christ. Yes, there may be times for rebuking, but even then, we must choose kinder words which will motivate and inspire correction in love.

Do not forget this further instruction regarding our words found in (Galatians 6:1):

“Brethren, even if anyone is caught in any trespass, you who are spiritual, restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness; each one looking to yourself, so that you too will not be tempted.“

There is so much importance connected with the words we speak, so let us give them close attention in all cases…