11/13/2023

Do not use harmful words, but only helpful words, the kind that build up and provide what is needed, so that what you say will do good to those who hear you.  Ephesians 4:29

The words we say matter.  Words can help.  Words can heal.  Words can hurt.  Words can harm.  Are the words we speak building up or tearing down?

Where do harmful words come from?  Jesus says they come from our hearts.

But the things that come out of your mouth—your curses, your fears, your denunciations—these come from your heart.  Matthew 15:18a

How beneficial to others are the words you speak?  Do your words convey love and grace and hope, encouraging others; or do they communicate condemning judgmentalism, an uncaring spirit, uncontrolled anger?

In the midst of partisan political polarization, David French believes the words followers of Jesus speak and do not speak are crucial.  He emphasizes that in this election season it’s not about the “what” of politics but about the “how”.  He says:  “If we could just do two things, and two things only, it would change everything.”  Those two things are:  “I will not lie and I will not empower liars.  I will not be cruel and I will not empower cruelty.”

-Michael