In our small group this morning, we talked about disagreements and differences within the body of Christ, all of which, if we're not careful, can lead to division. We talked about how differences aren't always bad, if our ultimate goal is unity in the faith, sharing the love of Christ and furthering the Gospel.
With our class discussion in mind, I've been chewing on something that's been troubling me for quite some time. It's words I've read, conversations I've overheard, and things I've experienced — all coming from fellow Christ followers. It's those snarky retorts, sarcastic responses, and stinging words. The venomous words cloaked in honey. Mean-spirited jesting. Ugly words and sharp tone that wound and divide.
So I've spent the afternoon reading Scripture verses on "our words" and here's what I've learned:
Our words are powerful (Proverbs 18:21). As a believer, we are called to use our words for good, to edify and encourage (Ephesians 4:29, Proverbs 15:4) Even when we are justifiably angry, our words should be full of Truth, seasoned with grace, and spoken in love (Colossians 4:6).
Our words are an outflow of what's in our heart (Matthew 15:18). Being angry, irritated, grumpy or impatient does not give us permission to be ugly. We must guard our tongue (Proverbs 21:23). If we're not careful, our tongue will be an effective tool used by the evil one to demean, discourage and destroy. (Proverbs 12:18, Proverbs 11:9, James 3:5).
Our words expose our fruit (Matthew 12:33) Not only are we known by our words, actions and deeds, we are accountable to God for what we say. Matthew 12:37 says "For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Most of all, our spoken words — as well as our email, text messages and social media posts — should always be pleasing to the Lord. (Psalm 19:14).
Pleasant words are like a honeycomb,Sweetness to the soul and health to the bones.
- Proverbs 16:24
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