GRACIOUS AND LOVING WORDS
Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers (Ephesians 4:29).
What kind of words come out of your mouth? Are they words of love and grace, or words that pierce like a sword? The Bible says in Proverbs 12:18, “There is that speaketh like the piercings of a sword: but the tongue of the wise is health.” The latter is your life; your words are to bring healing to the bruised and mend the broken-hearted.
Don’t utter words that destabilize others and rob them of their self-esteem. Support, uplift, bless and minister grace to others with your words. Your mouth is a tool given to you by God for edification, not for vengeful, hateful, or distasteful words that engender strife or contention.
Take a cue from Jesus; He always spoke uplifting, building, comforting, inspiring and soul-stirring words. Those who heard Him speak in Bible days couldn’t get enough of His words. Even the common people, according to the Bible, heard Him gladly (Mark 12:37). His words brought them relief, hope, faith and love.
The Bible says in Ephesians 3:17-19, “That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.” To be filled with God is to be filled with love because God is love.
God’s love is shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Spirit but expressed through your words and actions. Therefore, be known for gracious and loving words. Everyone, including children, should be comfortable around you because they know that every word from you will build them up and improve their self-esteem. Your life should be a blessing to everyone.
Make up your mind to be a source of peace and joy, reflecting Christ in everything you do. That doesn’t mean everyone will be happy with you. Even Jesus wasn’t accepted by everyone. Some opposed Him despite His goodness. But don’t let that change your focus. Let your actions and words minister grace, edify others, and demonstrate the love of Christ.
PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for filling my heart with your love and grace. I speak words that edify, inspire and build others. My life reflects your goodness and love. I’m a blessing to everyone around me, and my actions reflect the life of Christ in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
FURTHER STUDY:
Colossians 4:6, Proverbs 15:1, James 3:17-18, Ephesians 4:29 AMPC
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:57-80, Deuteronomy 8-10
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 23:23-39, Exodus 26
