18 Oct Encouraging or Tearing Down?
When you don’t have time to say much or your words are limited, do you use your words to encourage or criticize? To build up or tear down? What is your legacy with your voice?
God’s Word says, “Let everything that you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4:29).
I’ve had some time to think about this verse. When I can’t say much, am I going to waste my words on negativity and criticism? Because that’s exactly what it feels like – wasted words. God is really bringing this to the forefront of my mind and convicting me. I am so guilty of speaking harsh, unkind words to those in my circle of responsibility, especially my family. He wants even my words to ezer others – to encourage, build them up, uplift and not the opposite. And I know that my words flow out of what’s in my heart.
Lord, change my heart so that my words are encouraging and helpful. Fill me with more of you. Make me an instrument of your peace. Let my words be an encouragement to others.