October 2023

Let no evil talk come out of your mouths but only what is good for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.

-Ephesians 4:29

The Scriptures often talk about the power of words for good or for evil. James spoke of the tongue as a fire, able to warm, sure, but more often than not igniting terrible devastation. God created all good things by His Word, and God always speaks life. However, we have learned to speak lies and to harm others with our tongues.

I learned so much from Margaret, a pastor from Kansas, who refused to allow any conversation about a third party to continue if that person weren’t there to be a part of it, especially if the conversation was critical. Don’t talk ABOUT people, talk TO them. If you are talking about someone, it should lead to speaking with them directly in order to encourage them or correct them in love, not to boost your own self-righteousness. That’s the Biblical way (Jesus’ way).

The Scriptures tell us that we are accountable before God for every word we speak. Do we want to explain to their Father (and ours) why we spoke so cruelly about them? Isn’t it horrible to hear someone talking uncharitably about you when they don’t know you’re present?

Let’s abandon the evil habit of speaking poorly of others. Remember, Jesus is always present. Would we speak that way about one of Jesus' children in front of Jesus Himself? He loves and died for that child! It’s so much better to be speaking words that build up. I mean, there’s no prohibition about speaking someone up so that they might receive more grace! Do that instead. It makes a huge difference, and furthermore, your words reveal to you what’s in your own heart.

God bless you this week, Church. May your words be full of grace.

In His Grip,

Pastor Matthew