When we were young (like all kids) we would make fun of each other, sometimes mercilessly. It was called “chopping someone low”. Our words have the power to build other people up or tear them down. Over the years God has removed the desire and natural tendency to ‘chop others down’ or even to be sarcastic as my first thoughts. The apostle Paul gives us (by way of his letter to the believers in Ephesus), practical advice for Christian living and more importantly speech. He says first that the goal of my communication is ‘edification’ of the hearer, not my venting or satisfaction. I don’t want to be so afraid of every offending someone that I guard every word, but on the other hand, I do want to build others up! Of course, its all predicated on the Spirit filled (controlled) life. In the end, my mouth will speak from the overflow of my heart. So that is where my attention will be… a pure heart shaped by God.
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 NASB
How do others feel after a conversation with me? Are they built up or torn down?
God, as this day begins- (in Lausanne, Switzerland) may the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pure and without impediment of sin. May I speak words of gold in settings of silver.
