Ephesians: His Glorious RichesSample

Paul continues to describe the way in which we should behave in a world that is alienated from God. The world is materialistic and it is tempting to love its things. Yet Christians should not allow physical possessions to possess our hearts. We should not steal but work productively, using any wealth to bless others (v. 28). 

However, the overwhelming emphasis in this section is on the power of words. The Bible says a great deal about this subject (Prov. 12:6, 13–14, 17–19; 15:4, 7; 18:20–21; Jas. 3:1–12), so it should not surprise us that Paul now turns his attention to it. Read through this section carefully and notice the ways our words can bring help or harm to people around us. 

Words must be truthful (v. 25). As we are part of the same spiritual body, telling lies damages those with whom we have an intimate relationship. Yet we lie because it is an easy way to escape from an embarrassing situation or to promote ourselves and our agenda. How do we resist this? 

Words must not be spoken in an angry and threatening way (vv. 26–27). Not all anger is sinful – God is angry with sin and there are times when our passion for righteousness will make us angry (Gal. 1:6–9). But it is easy for anger to tip over into sin. As is often quoted, ‘Anger is only one letter short of danger.’ Therefore deal with it quickly before the devil uses our anger to drive a wedge between us and our fellow believers. 

Words must be wholesome or health-giving (v. 29). They have power to build up and to encourage (Heb. 10:24–25), so we need to control our words in order that they minister health to others. The opposite of these kind of words are those which are bitter and slanderous (v. 31). Such words grieve the Spirit (v. 30). ‘Grieve’ is a word prompted by love, reminding us that the Spirit is a Person, not a force or an object. We should be sensitive to His promptings and submit to His directions contained in the Bible. 

Words must be kind and compassionate (v. 32). It may be difficult to forgive others, but God does not leave us with the option of harbouring bitterness or being unforgiving (Matt. 6:14–15; Col. 3:13). Unforgiving words are easily uttered, but they are difficult to retract, so guard your lips (Ps. 141:3).

Reflection

Paul gives two incentives for controlling our words: sinful words give a foothold to the devil (v. 27) and they grieve the Spirit (v. 30). How will this affect the way in which you speak today? Read through the verses from Proverbs quoted above. What do they teach?