Growing in HopeSample

Unwholesome Words

In Ephesians 4:28 Paul addresses one of the 10 commandments: “You shall not steal.” We all know it is wrong to take something that does not belong to us. This could be anything like taking money from someone, not paying your taxes, or even by wasting time on the internet at work when you should be working. 

We know in our hearts when we take something that does not belong to us. We may even try to justify stealing by telling ourselves, “They owe it to me.” However, any time we take something that is not ours, it is stealing. Stealing is a sin against God and, as followers of Jesus, we should say no to stealing of any kind. 

In Ephesians 4:29, Paul says, "Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth".  Sometimes, we say things that hurt others. We have all been guilty of doing this. Sometimes we may say, “I was just kidding” after saying something hurtful to, or about someone else. Deep down, we know that putting others down is wrong. Not only is it wrong, but it reveals a deeper issue inside each of us. 

Jesus said in Matthew 15:18, “But the things that proceed out of the mouth come from the heart, and those defile the man.” What we say begins in our thoughts. What we say to, or about others, reveals how we feel or think about them.

Cursing also reveals a deep issue in us. Maybe it’s related to a lack of fear and respect for God, or maybe cursing is related to anger issues that stem from pain that is buried within us. Whatever the cause may be, after we speak any word that is unwholesome, we should confess it to God and ask Him to reveal what the root of the problem actually is.

Our words should be used to honor God. Our words should be used to tell others about Jesus. Our words should be used to encourage those who need encouragement. 

Proverbs 18:21 reads, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.”

Use your words to speak Life!

Prayer:
Father, today I want to honor You. Let my actions, thoughts and words bring You glory. Show me who I can encourage today with my words. Forgive me when I fail You. I ask that You cleanse me from all unrighteousness and have Your way in me, Lord Jesus. In your name, I pray. Amen.