Three Ways to Honor God with Our Speech
What we say and how we say it matters.
When was the last time someone else’s words affected you in a profound way, good or bad?
In my past,
Praise has lifted my spirits.
Criticism has plummeted my self-confidence.
Hurtful words have cracked my heart.
Loving words have filled my soul with happiness.
Can you think of a time when someone else’s words had a deep impact on you?
Let’s look at three things the Bible has to say about our words:
Our words should build others up, not tear them down.
Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth,
but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.
Ephesians 4:29 (NASB 1995)
Our everyday conversations with friends, family, and coworkers can start out innocently but quickly turn into complaining or speaking badly of another’s appearance, demeanor, actions, etc.
We ease our conscience by thinking, It isn’t my fault, I can’t control what others say. But by not saying anything or turning the conversation in a different direction, are we any better than the one speaking disparagingly about another?
Our words should discourage anger, not encourage it.
A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
Proverbs 15:1 (NKJV)
As a little girl, when one of my siblings came at me with anger, that’s what they got in return. After all, no one steals my toy and gets away with it, right?
As we mature in life and in spiritual things, God expects us to resist the urge to escalate the situation with revenge.
God points out how the right words and tone can avoid a confrontation.
Our words should speak truth, not lies.
Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD,
But those who deal truthfully are His delight.
Proverbs 12:22 (NKJV)
God detests lies. He is perfect and cannot tell a lie. (Hebrews 6:18) We need to follow His example.
Even if no one discovers our untruth, God knows.
We will never be perfect when it comes to what comes out of our mouths, but we are to do our best to honor God with our speech.
If we’re having trouble with what is coming out of our mouths, maybe it’s time to look into our hearts. When our hearts change, our words will too. (Matthew 12:34)
Dear Lord, help me to only speak words that are pleasing to You.
Other verses on this subject: Ephesians 5:3-4, Psalm 141:3
It’s hard to be the better person when the world conditions us to hate. The Holy Spirit makes a huge difference when you let Jesus guide you. Thank you, Kate!
What a thoughtful reflection on the power of words. Your insights about the impact of praise and criticism are so relatable. Thanks for sharing this valuable reminder!