Mind Your Language

On an average we speak 12,000 words each day and approximately 25 billion text messages are sent out globally in a 24 hour period. If that doesn't tell us the power of words and that we should mind our language I don't know what does.

Think back through the last couple of days, can you think of words which encouraged and comforted you? And then maybe words which left you feeling low and discouraged?

Language is a part of our lives. We write, we speak, we text, and we listen, we read. From the moment we learn our first words, each of us make and live memories many linked to what we have spoken or what someone has spoken or written to us. At home, at work, at the playground, on the bus, at the supermarket- are our words gracious?The Bible has a lot to say about our words. In today's world our words speak through texts and emails as well as telephone conversations and video calls.

Conversations full of grace

“Let your conversations be always full of grace.”

-Colossians 4:6 NIV

 I joyfully remember talking about school to my mother after a school day. Tasty home made snacks and milk accompanied by Amma's listening ear and encouraging words made that time so special. When I had a problem at school or with friends, if I was scared or worried, my parents always had the right words to comfort and encourage.

When we gather together as a family or a group of friends, let's pray for conversations of grace. Ephesians 4: 29b tells us to talk about what  is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it will benefit those who listen. 

Wholesome talk

Ephesians 4: 29a NIV

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths.

Reading this verse I was convicted about words I had spoken about a friend to a common friend of ours on the phone. One thing led to the other and it had become a gossip session I was so not proud of. Now, when I make a call I ask God to help me speak words which edify. 

Let us think back over our past week. When did we snap back at someone at work or on the train? Are there words we wish we had never said? Our God is a God of second chances and more chances.

In an office setting, on college grounds, in the classroom and at church we can whisper a prayer asking God to help us speak words which uplift, encourage and show love extending  mercy.

Once I heard someone talk rudely to my elderly father and saw that he was quiet. Later I asked him why he had not spoken back or defended himself. Appa told me that it was a chance for him to be Christ-like. Those words have stayed with me over the years.

“When the people hurled their insults at Jesus, he did not retaliate, when he suffered he made no threats instead he entrusted himself to Him who judges justly.”

-1 Peter 2: 23 NIV

That's the Jesus we worship, that is the God we want to live like.

Humble words

Our words are an overflow of our heart. When we are humble, our words will be loving and honest. 

‘True gospel - humility means an ego that is not puffed up but filled up. This is totally unique. It is not thinking more of myself or less of myself, it is thinking of myself less’ says Tim Keller in his book The Freedom of Self Forgetfulness.

Philippians 2:7 says that Jesus made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant.

Ephesians 5:1 and Philippians 2:5 tell us to imitate Jesus and that our heart attitude should be the same as Jesus.

Keep us humble Lord we pray

May our words be gracious, through today,

Help us reflect your love as we

Imitate you Jesus in what we text, write, say.