May 28, 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
How we speak to one another is significant. The words we use when speaking or typing can tear down or build up others. Throughout the Bible, we find encouragement to not only refrain from speaking damaging words but also work to share words that edify others.
I was reminded of the importance of kind words when I was helping gather my youngest daughter’s softball equipment for a tournament. Like many other teams, our team wears a wristband that helps with team communication. When the coaches communicate a sign to one of the players, they look at the information in their wristband to decode what the coaches are telling them. It might be a sign to bunt or swing away. I read one I did not anticipate when I looked at the codes. It simply read, “I believe in you.”
Our team is made up of 10-year-olds who are learning the challenging game of softball. There are times when the game can be frustrating. A simple message like “I believe in you.” has the potential to help a player through a difficult moment. I am grateful that our coaches understand the power of positive words.
When the Apostle Paul was writing from captivity, he wanted the church to know that we must consider how we speak to one another. Paul was intentional about speaking positively, even though he was experiencing imprisonment and persecution for the faith. As a people of faith, Paul clearly said we should “not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths.” More than that, Paul writes that we should speak in such a way that those who hear us “benefit” from what we say.
What we say matters. Like the Apostle Paul, we should be intentionally positive. Regardless of our situation, we can work to be a blessing with what we say. With our words, we can send positive signs that communicate the love of God to those who hear us.
-Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
