7/31/13 Ephesians 4:29 Speak Only What Is Good

Ephesians 4:29 (NAS)

 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, that it may give grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:29 (NIVUS)

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.

 

You have been placed in a position of respect and it is important that you maintain a high standard. One of the most important areas to exhibit excellence is in your speech; for you are a spokesman for the Lord Jesus Christ. You are His ambassador and must conduct yourself as He would. What you speak can be as sharp as a sword and can deeply cut those who hear. Therefore, do not let any corrupt or worthless words leave your mouth. Words that are of poor quality or unfit for use should not even be considered. So do not let those words form in your thoughts.  

Instead declare those things that are good and pleasant in nature.  You should speak words that are excellent, honorable, and upright--words that bring joy to the hearer. It is your duty to edify and build up your brothers and sisters.  Your words should promote another's growth in Christ, helping him to become all that the Lord God created him to be.  When you freely give good and pleasant words, you extend God's grace to those who hear.  They receive His mercy and favor through those good words.  Such words strengthen and empower others, ministering to them in their times of need.  So always speak according to God's word and you will do well.

 (Originally written 11/10/04)