Ephesians 4:29

“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

Colossians 3:8

“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.”

We learned yesterday that our words matter. There is something weighty, important, and almost frightening about our words and the effect they have on other people. Our words have power.

That’s why Paul encouraged us in Ephesians 4 to avoid “unwholesome talk.” By that, Paul could have meant any number of things – complaining, bitter criticism, unrighteous anger, words that are crude or rude or slanderous. In short, Paul was warning against the use of hurtful words. They do more damage than people realize. How many times have you said something that you didn’t really think about, and later it came back to bite you in a way that was bigger than you ever dreamed? It’s like those words took on a life of their own.

The opposite is true too. If you will consciously use words that edify, strengthen, and bolster the confidence of others, the results will be tremendous. When it comes to words, we don’t just reap what we sow, we reap so much more.

Think of someone in your circle of relationships who is the most “down and out.” For practice, write down three or four sentences that you could say to that person that would build them up.

Pray and ask God for the opportunity to share this with them now!!!