Teach One Another 3

Ephesians 4:29-30

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” That is a familiar saying from our childhood, something we were taught in the hopes of maintaining a positive self-esteem even in the face of criticism. But the truth is words can hurt very much. Bad words, criticism, ridicule can cause more pain and longer lasting damage than a handful of sticks and stones.

As Christians we need to be keenly aware of the power of our words. We need to be very conscious of our ability to tear down or to build up. When we speak to one another in our times of worship, when we try to lead or share with one another in Bible study, when we interact at our council meetings, we need to choose our words wisely.

We have talked about what to say to one another that we might teach one another. This passage takes a slightly different turn. What are we not to say? What are we not to do? According to the second half of verse 29, what are we to say?

Although interactions with others may not always go as smoothly as we would like, and spending time together inevitably leads to those times of friction and disagreement, we need to be careful with our words and our attitudes. We are told not to allow any unwholesome talk to come out of our mouths. Instead of arguing and criticizing one another, we should teach and build others up according to their needs.

But unwholesome talk is more than just rude words and harsh criticism. Unwholesome talk would include lies and deceit. Unwholesome talk would also include false statements and misinformation. These words would grieve the Holy Spirit for the evil that is perpetuated.

If we will teach one another we must choose our words wisely. We must treat one another with respect and acceptance. And we must provide one another with the truth, with learning that is based on fact and couched in mercy; not with hearsay, falsehoods, superstitions or erroneous tradition.

Keep unwholesome words from leaving your mouth. Instead, let us teach one another and build one another up in Christian love.

DAILY CHALLENGE: How can you be certain that your words are wholesome and helpful?