“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. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:29-32 NIV)
For just a moment, think about the way you talked to yourself this morning when you were getting ready for the day. Consider all the “put downs” you have received or heard spoken to others. Doesn’t it make you cringe to hear such talk? The real problem with this sort of talk is that it is corrupting. It destroys or corrupts your self-esteem. And if continued indefinitely, it becomes a self-fulfilling belief.
On the other hand, what if you looked in the mirror each morning and began saying good, positive words of encouragement to that person looking back at you. What if you said words that built up the individual, would it make a difference? What if you continued throughout the day saying good words that fit the occasion, how would you feel? Your words have the power of life and death. Why not choose words of life to say to yourself and to others? Why not words of grace to those who hear you?
Charles Kingsley said, “Never, if possible, lie down at night without being able to say: I have made one human being, at least, a little wiser, a little happier, or a little better this day.” Consider the beauty of this quotation. Meditate on it and let it become a part of your life.
Dear Father, thank you for the life of your Word. Grant that I may speak words of life to others. Bless all those who read these words today. Enable them to receive the life of your Word. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be courageous today and speak words of life to yourself and others,