Daily Devotionals

Bride and Gloom Week 3: Wednesday

Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29

You have likely heard the old adage, "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." While the saying is catchy and pithy, it could not be further from the truth. Words are powerful, and they can build us up and tear us down. They shift atmospheres. One negative comment can shake the entire mood of a group and bring it down. Conversely, a positive comment can leave everyone feeling uplifted and encouraged. Make no mistake, the words we use and speak to the people around us matter, and we should treat them as powerful as they are.

 As we consider the power of our words, we would do well to heed Paul's words in Ephesians 4. In this chapter of Ephesians, Paul talks about how followers of Christ are to use their words. "Don't use foul or abusive language," he writes. "Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them" (verse 29). This verse makes it clear: our words have power. When we speak life-giving positive words, we build others up, especially our spouses. These encouraging words shift the atmosphere. They can change someone's day and breakthrough tension. They have a profound impact. 

My friend, don't you want to be someone who builds people up? Don't you want to be someone who brings light and encouragement in situations that seem hopeless? It all begins with our words. So let's treat our words as powerful as they are and use them to impact everyone in our lives.

Moving toward action

As you go throughout your day, pay attention to your words. When you use positive, encouraging words, notice how they impact the people around you. If you find yourself wanting to speak negative or even hurtful words, correct yourself. Let go of the negative words and pick up positive ones instead. Let's use our words every day to build up the people around us, especially our spouses and other members of the body of Christ.

Going Deeper

Ephesians 4:28-32 (NLT)

"If you are a thief, quit stealing. Instead, use your hands for good hard work, and then give generously to others in need. 29 Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

30 And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption.

31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 32 Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."