The power of your words
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
A church decided to do some major renovations on their decades-old building, so they called together a group of members to do the internal demolition. Around 40 people of all ages showed up that day eager to take on the task.
They went right to work ripping up carpet, knocking out walls, tearing down ceilings, and dismantling just about everything in the building. There was no skill or training required. People young and old pitched in and had the demolition done in no time.
When this phase was completed, the remodeling began – which required skilled and trained people who knew how to construct, build, and refurbish. Their task was much more difficult and it took much longer than the demolition.
Tearing down is easy, especially when it comes to people. A simple burst of anger or a careless word can destroy a relationship. But it takes skill and intention to build someone up – holding your tongue and speaking the right words at the right times.
When it comes to people, be a skilled builder instead of a demolisher. It takes more time and effort, but the rich, God-honoring relationships you’ll build are well worth it!
Prayer Challenge:
Pray and ask God to make your words a constructive, not destructive, force in other people’s lives.
Questions for Thought:
Think of a time when someone said something that tore you down. Why did those words hurt you?
How can you speak words into other people’s lives that build them up?
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