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
"Sticks and stones may break my bones but names will never hurt me." Child-hood Rhyme
If names will never hurt me, then why are there so many therapists out there dealing with adults who were verbally abused during their childhood? Why are there so many hurts related to statements and phrases in my past? Why do certain words cause me to cringe when I hear them?
BECAUSE there's power behind those words - power to build-up or power to tear-down. Our spirit knows it. Ask any teenager. Ask any adult. Words can HURT!
I have learned in the past (and still continue to learn) that what I say does matter. I have a tendency to think negatively about things. I size them up and have my opinions. But I think I do a pretty good job of keeping it in my head. but I am learning that even though I don't say it, there is some "seepage" in my actions and attitudes. God is dealing with that in my life.
God is also dealing with the issue that I may not be spewing out negativity, but I am not very good at spewing out the positive, encouraging stuff either. Lately, I find myself needing to tell people encouraging things. Tell me I appreciate when...tell them I'm proud of them...tell them I love them.
God is daring us today to build people up - to only speak edifying words. I resolve to not speak negative, but be overflowing with encouragement and compassion!
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