The Abundant Life

I remember before putting my trust in Christ, my speech was just unedifying. Insults and curses always rumbled out of my mouth. But after discovering these Scripture passages and through the help of the Holy Spirit, I began to pay attention to each time harmful words wanted to go out of my mouth.

Sometimes, our words hurt people. But Jesus can bring healing. In James 3:8-12, we are admonished to desert every ill word we speak. James says fresh water and salty water can’t come out from the same spring—we can’t be a blessing and a curse at the same time. How sad it is that we use the same mouth to praise God and insult people.

But if we put our trust in Jesus, He forgives us and cleanses us from every sin. And as we trust in Christ and lean on the Holy Spirit, He can help us tame our tongue to keep it from unleashing unpleasant words. The truth is our words can kill, but they can also heal. Isn’t it amazing that our words can help and heal others?

Scripture also encourages us to always say things that will be helpful to others, words that will edify them and bring out the good in them. Beloved, through Christ our words can be seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6), which means they can add taste and value to the people who listen to us. Our speech should not be bitter like saltwater, but rather flavored with grace like a good meal.

When we speak words, we don’t know how far they will go and who might be listening. So let us speak Christ with every word we say. • Shadrach Goni

• Have you ever been hurt by someone’s words? If you’re still hurting, you can bring your pain to Jesus and ask for His healing.

• Has anyone ever said something to you that brought healing and joy to your heart?

• If you struggle with using hurtful words, you can take some time with Jesus, talking about it with Him and resting in His forgiveness. Through the work of the Holy Spirit in you, He can help you love others with your words.

Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:6 (NLT)

Read Verses:

Matt.7.13-Matt.7.14|Matt.19.28-Matt.19.29|John.1.1-John.1.5|John.5.24|John.10.10