Isaiah - Verse By Verse | Walking through Ephesians

Walking through Ephesians - Day 95

versebyverse | February 18, 2008 22:10

Thought: To me, it is very important to stop and think before you speak!

Question: Do I build others up with my words?

Scripture: Ephesians 4:29 (NIV): "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."

Paul continues with practical behaviors that will facilitate unity. What we say to fellow brethren is of utmost importance. Our words are influential. Unwholesome talk only pulls another down into it. We see from this verse that our mere words can potentially "build others up." Do we know what an impact our words have? Also I see here the return of the necessity to focus on others, not self. How can we speak helpful words to another's benefit unless we have become aware of their needs? If we are commanded to build others up "according to their needs", we have to know all about those needs. We have to ask. We have to listen. Then we have so speak helpful things to their benefit.

Prayer: Lord, set a guard by my lips, that I may not hurt another with my words. Give me words that build people up. Amen.