Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers. — Ephesians 4:29
There are many lessons that we learn in life. As a child, I remember learning lessons about many things, such as honesty, integrity, and behavior. My parents worked to instill in me an understanding of the responsibility that I have for the things that I do. One of the more challenging responsibilities is regarding the things we say.
I’ll never forget an interaction with a friend of mine when I was much younger. I had said something, but I quickly forgot what I said in passing. That friend didn’t forget it. In fact, they remembered word for word every detail and expected me to follow through on my statement. When I forgot, I immediately realized the hurt I had caused.
Our responsibility in the things we say doesn’t stop with simply telling the truth. We are responsible for every aspect of everything we say. Whether the words are good or bad, acceptable or vulgar, public or private, it doesn’t matter. We will give account for every word that passes through our lips one day.
If all the words that passed through our lips were displayed for everyone to see, would we be ashamed? Would we want to repeat the things that we say in front of God? Chances are we all have opportunity to improve when we consider the responsibility we have in the things we say.
The challenge of this verse is to use our words for edification and to minister grace to others. This means we are responsible and accountable. If we reflect on our words, what are the result of the words that we say? Are we serious with the responsibility that we have?
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