Sticks and Stones

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 (NIV) 

Do you know that something as simple as your words can create strength and peace in your life? 

Perhaps you’ve heard the old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me”. Nothing could be further from the truth. 

Your words have incredible power. You can use them to bring blessing and life or to rain down curses and death. Often, the wounds inflicted by words go far deeper and last much longer than any physical wound. 

In this passage of Ephesians, Paul urges you to be very selective in the words that you allow to escape through your lips. Your words are to be life-giving and strengthening to all who hear them. How do you know whether your words are beneficial? You can ask yourself these questions: 

First, is what I am about to say wholesome? The meaning of the word “wholesome” is conducive to or promoting moral well-being. Are your words constructive? Will your words encourage the one who hears them? 

Second, do my words help build others up, according to their needs? That means you need to consider what another person might be experiencing. Are they stressed or in need of some compassion? How might your words help them make a tough decision, or feel loved and valued?  

In the original language, the last part of this verse communicates the idea that each word should be like a gift. Are my words a gift of grace to the person I am talking to? Thinking through these questions helps you speak in a way that glorifies Christ and gives grace to everyone around you.

If you’re like me, you need God’s grace to keep conflict, discord, and division out of your heart and home. Allow the Holy Spirit to help you speak words that strengthen, add courage, and build unity. Consider these questions and allow God’s Spirit to guide you to speak less and listen more, experiencing fewer arguments and greater peace. 

Prayer: Jesus, Thank You for Your perfect Word, giving me wisdom and truth. Thank You for Your precious Spirit, guiding me to guard the words that I use. Please help me offer words of life, consider others’ needs, and stay quiet unless each word is a gift of grace. In Jesus’ name, amen.