In what ways can our words "benefit those who listen"? Setting the Foundation: Ephesians 4:29 “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.” The Positive Power of Godly Words • Build up rather than tear down • Strengthen weary hearts with grace • Reflect Christ’s character and truth • Foster unity within families, friendships, and the church • Point listeners to the hope found in the gospel Where Scripture Echoes the Same Call • Proverbs 16:24 — “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” • Colossians 4:6 — “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:11 — “Therefore encourage one another and build one another up.” • Isaiah 50:4 — “The Lord GOD has given Me the tongue of discipleship, to sustain the weary with a word.” • Proverbs 15:1 — “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” • James 3:9-10 — Reminds that blessing and cursing should not flow from the same mouth Specific Ways Our Words Benefit Those Who Listen 1. Encouragement • Speak hope into moments of discouragement • Affirm God’s promises (e.g., Romans 8:28; Philippians 1:6) 2. Comfort • Share compassionate words that reflect God’s comfort (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) 3. Instruction and Wisdom • Offer practical, biblically grounded counsel (Proverbs 27:9) 4. Correction in Love • Restore gently when sin is evident (Galatians 6:1) 5. Gratitude and Praise • Express thankfulness to God and to others, cultivating joy (Psalm 34:1; 1 Thessalonians 5:18) 6. Testimony of the Gospel • Declare the good news of Jesus, producing faith in hearers (Romans 10:17) Practical Ways to Speak Life Today • Pause before speaking; invite the Spirit to guide each word • Replace sarcasm or negativity with sincere affirmation • Memorize key verses to share at needful moments • Text or call someone with a timely Scripture or encouraging thought • Use “I notice” and “I appreciate” statements to edify others • Offer gentle truth when correction is necessary, coupling it with encouragement Fruit That Follows God-Honoring Speech • Strengthened relationships marked by trust and respect • Hearts revived with fresh courage and renewed faith • A culture of grace that repels gossip and bitterness • Clear witness to outsiders of Christ’s transforming power • Mutual growth in holiness as believers spur one another on toward love and good deeds |
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