Ephesians 4:29-32 (NLT) provides clear guidance on how we should communicate and live our lives. It says, “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. 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. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”
Recently, I overheard a conversation between a husband and wife in the grocery store line. Their exchange was loving yet corrective. The wife expressed frustration about a co-worker and admitted she had been harsh in her words. Her husband gently pointed out, “You used to be so kind, but now you speak without a filter. You’re supposed to be a Christian, but listening to you, it’s hard to see the difference.” This moment was a stark reminder of Ephesians 4:29-32’s call to let our words and actions reflect the love and grace God has shown us. It challenges us to ensure that our daily interactions align with our faith, showing kindness and forgiveness in all that we do.
Examining how we speak is a vital aspect of grace and humility as followers of Jesus Christ. None of us are perfect; we all fall short of the glory of God, but this isn’t an excuse to drift from Christ’s example. We must always remember who we belong to, because we have a responsibility to represent Christ. Having his mindset involves dedicating ourselves to applying God’s Word even when it’s challenging. We can’t just say anything that we want to say, when we want to say it; we must be mindful that our words have impact and we can’t afford to be careless with them.
Zechariah 8:16 (NLT) instructs us, “But this is what you must do: Tell the truth to each other. Render verdicts in your courts that are just and that lead to peace.” This verse emphasizes that our words should always be truthful, just, and peace-promoting. Reflecting on this, I must admit that there have been times when I didn’t pay enough attention to the impact of my words. I experienced firsthand the fallout of speaking hurtful words to someone I cared about; the response was often harsh and sometimes even worse than what I initially said.
As Christian women, it’s especially important that our language uplifts and encourages those around us, including our children. Proverbs 31:26 (NLT) reminds us, “When she speaks, her words are wise, and she gives instructions with kindness.” Our children absorb everything we say and often repeat it without us realizing. Our words shape their understanding and behavior, making it crucial for us to be mindful and intentional in our speech. Our words carry lasting power and can profoundly influence those who hear them. Therefore, let us commit to using our words to build up, motivate, and reflect the grace, peace, and truth of God. ■
Scripture quotations marked (NLT) are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright © 1996. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, Illinois 60189. All rights reserved.
“Words that Lead to Peace”, written by Kim Times, edited by Fran Mack and KLizzie for Sundie Morning Sistas ©2024. All rights reserved. All done to the glory of God through Jesus Christ, our Lord! SMS is dedicated to inspiring and encouraging Christian Women through the Word of God.