words can hurt or heal

"Let no foul or polluting language come out of your mouth." ~ Ephesians 4:29


If someone brought a lethal weapon into your home, you would be terribly upset! You would probably call the police. If someone brought a lethal weapon into your Church, the ushers should ask them to check it at the door, but they really couldn't, because it comes attached. I'm speaking, of course, about the tongue.

Do you ever stop to think how your hurtful words can cut deeply into someone's heart? The typical response is "but you know I didn't mean it." If you didn't mean it, why say it? Things are said out of anger, or just plain thoughtlessness. Remember the television commercial a few years ago when the little boy ran into the house, slamming the screen door and yelling, "Hey, Mom, I got two A's." The Mom responded, "How many times have I told you to quit slamming that door?" You could see the excitement immediately leave the boy's face, as he was utterly destroyed by his Mom's words. Your words have the power to hurt or heal, pollute or purify. Does what you say help or hurt? Do your words do the person good, or damage and discourage him in some way? Are your words constructive? Do they build up the person you are talking to and encourage him, or do they tear him down?

We are sometimes careless with our words! Words should be used as tools of communication, not as substitutes for weapons. We say things in such a way that it hinders others in their walk with God. We, sometimes, injure a friend and damage the relationship -- with our words. We just should not do that! Here are three criteria for consciously governing our choice of words: 1.) Is it helpful? 2.) Is it constructive? 3.) Is it needful?

The point is not that God wants us to repress the truth, or be silent about spiritual issues and accountability! If we know God wants us to speak to a friend about a spiritual issue that we are concerned about, then we are to go to that person. Go with a clear understanding of our scriptural responsibility, with a heart-to-heart talk for clarification, and share our concerns. We should be ready to encourage and pray for that person. The positive, encouraging words we speak will open the door to all God has for us!