Ephesians 4:29

Ephesians 4:29 "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."

Paul just got done writing about how important the body is, how it builds itself up when it works properly. Which is interesting in itself, he says that when you are doing well in your faith, it helps me, when I am running strong to the finish line, it will help you with your walk with the Lord, when we all work well imagine the strength we have. Also he gives a list of all kinds of things the body includes, Apostles, teachers ... I would guess that none of us are called to be Apostles, but we are all called to run hard after the goal, and we can all do this, which will in turn build the body up in love.

So on to this verse. He really emphasizes what comes out of our mouth. This is also seen in James, where he talks about how the mouth can destroy, and that we praise God with our words and also tear things down with it, we can only serve one master, which one does our mouth serve? This also makes me think of what we say when we are not around someone, I feel I focus on the bad too much, does that help build the body, is that loving, no. I need to talk in a manner that will only build up, never tear down, I should never say something to a friend that will encourage bad behavior, I should also be a light to the world with my words, should I talk about someone behind their back or make snide remarks, by no means, I should do the opposite, when someone is gossiping I should build that person up.

We should also say only that which fits the occasion. There is a time and a place for what we say, we have to think about what we say, you know, think before you speak. Because words can have a huge impact, good or bad.

By the grace of God I pray that He would give me strength to do these things. To build up the body and to encourage others.