The Useful Tongue

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.

For the majority of the week, our focus has been on the first half of this verse as we seek to combat corrupting talk; however, today I want to call your attention to the way we can use our words for good.

Words can harm or heal. Words can bruise or build up.

Ephesians 4:29 doesn’t just call us to avoid harmful talk; it calls us to actively use our words as instruments of grace. Our words ought to give grace because we are people who have received grace. How are you using your words?

While many of us seek to control our tongue from profanity, insult, or filthiness, are we seeking to employ our tongue to encourage others?

This is Jordan’s words, not God’s, but I honestly think you should be the most encouraging, uplifting, kind speaker in your workplace and other spheres of influence. Are you?

I know you want to justify why this is not so, but is that right? Be honest!

As a follower of Jesus Christ—seeking to live in response to His love, hoping to model His love, known by His love—how YOU use YOUR WORDS matters a great deal! This does not mean that we avoid hard conversations or direct corrections, but it does mean that even in difficult talks we actively seek to be gracious in our speech.

Who do you need to build up today?
Who needs your encouragement?
What hard conversation do you need to approach with intentional grace?

Pray:
Psalm 19:14 — Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.