This is the third post of a three-part series from Yvette.
Watching a movie, a line stood out to me: “If your words were written on your skin, would you be proud or embarrassed?” They would be on display for all to see. I know personally I would be embarrassed by some, and I cannot take them back, but I understand more now than before that once spoken, your words cannot be taken back.
We all have moments when we wish we could take back something we said, or regret having said something. We all have moments when we let our emotions get the best of us. In those moments, we need to stop and apologize because, as Christians, we are supposed to build up and not tear down.
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.
As Christians, we are called to edify. In researching, biblical edify is defined as “to spiritually build up, instruct, and strengthen fellow believers or the church, promoting growth in faith, character, and knowledge of God, much like constructing a building. It involves using teachings, actions, and spiritual gifts to help others become more Christ-like and mature in their faith, fostering unity and spiritual progress.” This encourages us to use our gifts to build and help others.
While there are have many denominations within Christianity, the foundation is the same:
And Jesus answered him, the first of all the commandments is, Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord: And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy strength: this is the first commandment. And the second is like, namely this, thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself. There is no other commandment greater than these” – Mark 12:29-31.
If we love our neighbors as ourselves, why do so many say things to each other that show anything but love? The words we use have weight not only on the person they are spoken to but on the world itself.
Understand that if God used Words to create and we are made in His image, then our words are just as important in that they can create or destroy. They can create peace or can cause dissension. Watch your words because words can change so many things, not only in your life but in the lives of those who hear your words.
Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” – Colossians 4:6.
Our words are seasoned. Seasoning enhances the flavor of food, so our words should enhance and bring forth good things, not only from us but for those who hear our words. Stop and really think about the words you have been using.
Have your words been a good seasoning? Have your words brought a smile to someone’s face, or offered comfort when someone is in need? Do they build up?
As Christians, these are things we should be very mindful of. Will it always work out that way? No, because none of us is perfect, but our words should do more good than harm. So, remember to guard your words. Your words, as you may be the only Bible someone has to read. Let your words reflect the love we are to have for your neighbors.
Yvette Asplund gave her life to God and was Baptized in April of 1999 and strives to continue to grow in her relationship with Him.