Encouraging Words

New International Version (©2011) 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. New Living Translation (©2007) 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. English Standard Version (©2001) Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear. Ephesians 4:29 (Taken from BibleSuite online) What proceeds from your mouth?  Is it righteous, grace filled truth, meant for building others up?  Is it hurtful, dishonest or selfish? Is it a mix of both?  I would guess that most of us, as fallen human beings, speak a mixture of helpful and hurtful words to each other. If you are at all like me you may tend allow the situation you are in dictate the words that come forth from your mouth.  This however, is not what Jesus said to do.  He wants us to choose beforehand to say things that are good and helpful to others.  He did not say- speak only that which makes them happy.  Sometimes we have to say things that are true, but do not make others happy.  We all sometimes need to hear things that are difficult to handle, but are helpful for building our character and well being.  This is why we seek the Lord first. How do you know what to say and what not to say?  Prayer and unity with God is of utmost importance. For, if any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. (James 1:5).  You can read all about wisdom through the book of Proverbs. How can we live in love and unity with each other - giving glory to God and shining our light to a broken world if we are not focused on helping each other, and building one another up?  It is impossible because we will be causing division among ourselves and showing the world that we are no different than them.  Therefore, my challenge today is to begin asking God for wisdom in this area of your life.  Ask Him to show you where you are strong, and where you need to grow.  Then repent for your sinful speech, and begin to turn it around for God's glory.  Ask Him what to say and when to say it. I have found that making a conscious choice to act in a certain way decreases the chances that I will "go my own way".   Spend time with Him each day and learn to hear His still small voice if you do not know it.  Allow Him to do a new work in you and finally, focus on speaking that which is helpful for building each other up.  You may be the only one who changes around you, but the change has to start somewhere.  Finally, praise the Lord for small victories.  Give Him the glory, for when you will do the little, he does the big.  He is faithful always.