Say What?! August 26 /2013 Scripture reading: Ephesians 4:29 "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." (Ephesians 4:29) If all the words you said last week were written down, would they show that you didn’t let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what builds others up? That’s a pretty tough command to keep—especially when you’re with your friends. Though it’s hard, you’ve still got to do your best to obey. Makes you want to yell for help, doesn’t it? Well, if the apostle Paul wrote an advice column—like Dear Abby or Dr. Laura—on how to use your words when you’re with your friends, it might read something like this: Today’s column features Dr. Paul’s handy-dandy list of do’s and don’ts for talking to your friends: • Do speak the truth. Be honest and real. • Don’t deceive others and pretend to be something or someone you’re not. • Do get rid of slander. As the saying goes, “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.” • Don’t use obscenity, foolish talk, or coarse jokes. If you’re not sure what that means, follow this rule of thumb: If you can’t say it to your pastor, you probably shouldn’t say it to your friends. • Do speak to each other about the stuff that really matters. Talk about God and the good things he’s done in your life. • Don’t let unwholesome words come out of your mouth. Never tear others down, even in “fun.” Saying “she knows I’m only kidding” doesn’t make it any less hurtful. Resist the temptation to make yourself look better by pointing out someone else’s faults. • Do say things that will build others up and benefit those who listen to you. Go out of your way to say encouraging things about others and to others. Rely on God for the strength to use the power of your words to make a positive difference in the lives of your friends! CHECK OUT MORE OF “DR. PAUL’S ADVICE” ON BOTH YOUR ACTIONS AND WORDS IN EPHESIANS 4:22-5:20. ~ God, I want to pay more attention to my words. Help me use my words to help others instead of hurt them... Amen! ~
Posted on: Mon, 26 Aug 2013 11:08:31 +0000
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