Building Up with Our Words
9/20/2024
"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."
- Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
Words are powerful. They have the ability to build up or tear down, to heal or to hurt, to inspire or to discourage. In Ephesians 4:29, Paul challenges us to be mindful of our words, calling us to speak in ways that bless others and bring life rather than harm. He commands us to avoid "unwholesome talk" and instead, speak words that are "helpful for building others up."
What is unwholesome talk? It could be gossip, criticism, or any negative speech that tears others down. These words often come from a place of frustration or selfishness, and they can cause real harm. We’ve all been on the receiving end of such words, and we know the pain they can inflict. Whether it’s harsh criticism, a sarcastic comment, or careless gossip, these kinds of words can leave deep wounds.
In contrast, Paul invites us to choose words that are helpful—words that lift people up and strengthen them according to their needs. This means paying attention to what others are going through and choosing to speak in ways that bring encouragement. Consider a time when someone spoke a kind or encouraging word to you in a moment of struggle. How did it feel? Those words likely gave you hope, reminded you of your worth, or provided the strength to keep going.
What does this look like in every day life? Let’s see.
Imagine a co-worker who is struggling with a difficult project. Instead of joining in the complaints or offering sarcastic remarks about their failure, you choose to offer a word of encouragement: “You’re doing a great job—keep pushing forward. I believe you’ll figure it out.” Such words can provide a boost of confidence and help them move past the frustration.
Or think about a friend who is going through a tough time in their personal life. Rather than offering empty platitudes or spreading gossip, you take the time to listen and offer sincere words of comfort: “I’m here for you. You’re strong, and I know you’ll get through this.” These are words that build up rather than tear down, showing Christ’s love through your speech.
Today, take inventory of your words. Are they building others up or tearing them down? Are they rooted in love and helpfulness, or are they laced with bitterness, complaint, or sarcasm? Commit to speaking life into the people around you. Offer encouragement, show kindness, and let your words reflect the heart of Christ.
As you go through your day, pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your conversations. Ask God to help you be mindful of the power of your words and to use them as tools to uplift and bless others.
Let your words be a reflection of God’s love, always seeking to build others up.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of speech and the ability to use words to bring life. Forgive me for the times I have spoken words that hurt others. Help me to be mindful of the power of my words and to use them in ways that build others up. Give me the wisdom to speak words of encouragement, truth, and love that reflect Your heart. Guide my speech today so that it may be a blessing to those who hear. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
"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."
- Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
Words are powerful. They have the ability to build up or tear down, to heal or to hurt, to inspire or to discourage. In Ephesians 4:29, Paul challenges us to be mindful of our words, calling us to speak in ways that bless others and bring life rather than harm. He commands us to avoid "unwholesome talk" and instead, speak words that are "helpful for building others up."
What is unwholesome talk? It could be gossip, criticism, or any negative speech that tears others down. These words often come from a place of frustration or selfishness, and they can cause real harm. We’ve all been on the receiving end of such words, and we know the pain they can inflict. Whether it’s harsh criticism, a sarcastic comment, or careless gossip, these kinds of words can leave deep wounds.
In contrast, Paul invites us to choose words that are helpful—words that lift people up and strengthen them according to their needs. This means paying attention to what others are going through and choosing to speak in ways that bring encouragement. Consider a time when someone spoke a kind or encouraging word to you in a moment of struggle. How did it feel? Those words likely gave you hope, reminded you of your worth, or provided the strength to keep going.
What does this look like in every day life? Let’s see.
Imagine a co-worker who is struggling with a difficult project. Instead of joining in the complaints or offering sarcastic remarks about their failure, you choose to offer a word of encouragement: “You’re doing a great job—keep pushing forward. I believe you’ll figure it out.” Such words can provide a boost of confidence and help them move past the frustration.
Or think about a friend who is going through a tough time in their personal life. Rather than offering empty platitudes or spreading gossip, you take the time to listen and offer sincere words of comfort: “I’m here for you. You’re strong, and I know you’ll get through this.” These are words that build up rather than tear down, showing Christ’s love through your speech.
Today, take inventory of your words. Are they building others up or tearing them down? Are they rooted in love and helpfulness, or are they laced with bitterness, complaint, or sarcasm? Commit to speaking life into the people around you. Offer encouragement, show kindness, and let your words reflect the heart of Christ.
As you go through your day, pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance in your conversations. Ask God to help you be mindful of the power of your words and to use them as tools to uplift and bless others.
Let your words be a reflection of God’s love, always seeking to build others up.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of speech and the ability to use words to bring life. Forgive me for the times I have spoken words that hurt others. Help me to be mindful of the power of my words and to use them in ways that build others up. Give me the wisdom to speak words of encouragement, truth, and love that reflect Your heart. Guide my speech today so that it may be a blessing to those who hear. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Pastor Jeff
#LoveGod #LovePeople #FindFreedom #FindYourDesign
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