“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.” Eph 4:29 (NIV)
Our words are irrevocable. Once spoken, words penetrate like an arrow on the bull’s-eye. Our words have immense power. In fact, they carry the power of life and death.
- “They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their words like deadly arrows.” Psalms 64:3 (NIV)
- “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness.” James 3:9 (NIV)
Paul is admonishing the believers at Ephesus to use their conversation to build up each other. He wants them to be mindful of their words. Beneficial words are those which are helpful and build others up according to their needs. Unwholesome talk does not honor God and does not benefit the Body of Christ.
In those times when you speak before you think, God wants you to employ damage control. Yes! You must go to the one you have offended and seek forgiveness. Within the Body of Christ, this is a true mark of spiritual maturity. Be willing to say, “I’m sorry and I was wrong!”
“If you have been trapped by what you said, ensnared by the words of your mouth, then do this, my son, to free yourself, since you have fallen into your neighbor’s hands: Go and humble yourself; press your plea with your neighbor!” Prov 6:2-3 (NIV)
Unity is at stake! It’s worth the agony to have a right relationship with God and with others. When words infuse a relational distance between you and someone else, allow God to speak words of healing and restoration through you to bring about reconciliation. Stay broken and humble before God and watch Him accomplish great things through you.
Pursuing God,
Stephen Trammell
Pastor of Leadership and Pastoral Care