Most of us grew up hearing the adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.”
That’s only half true…. the first half.
How many of you have had names or words cut you to the quick?
I’ve both hurt others with my words and been hurt by others.
The Apostle Paul exhorts us to let our words be with grace seasoned as it were with salt… preserve life in them.
He also tells us to not speak rotten words like others do, but rather speak grace to others that they might be built up.
You see, our words will either build up or tear down.
The enemy is listening and will use our words against us in relationships.
If I wound someone with my words, will they deem me safe or unsafe? Unsafe.
Will they want to confide in me and open up again? Nope.
Recently, I was careless with the subject line of an email and I busted on someone.
They expressed resentment and I followed with well at least you know who you are in Christ.
Not cool….even though it was true.
In our college Christian fellowship, we had a saying, “Edify, stupid.”
It was a reminder to speak well to one another and build each other up not point out each others’ flaws.
Grace covers our weaknesses and mistakes.
I can blame culture or family of origin, but the reality is I need to speak life into everyone that I meet.
Our words emit an aroma, the aroma of our heart.
If we are living from the heart of Jesus, our words will reflect His grace and mercy.
Beloved, ask the Lord to guard your heart and to speak through you to those around you.
Even when we do have to correct someone, if we start will affirmations of who they are in Christ, the correction is much more receivable and effective.
Speaking the truth in love is what we are called to do for one another.
This takes practice, but Jesus is really good at it. So let’s partner with Him to speak words of grace for His glory!
Blessings!
Robyn Henning