Our words can build people up or tear them down.
“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”Ephesians 4:29 (KJV)
What does “Words” mean in Ephesians 4:29?
The Greek word for corrupt is sapros, which means rotten or spoiled, like fruit that has gone bad. The good word that edifies is one that builds up.
Going deeper
Paul gives a simple test for speech. Before we say something, we can ask whether it will build up the person who hears it. The standard is not whether it is true or funny or something we feel entitled to say. It is whether it gives grace to the listener. Rotten words are not only curses and insults. They can be gossip, sarcasm, complaining, and careless jokes at someone's expense.
The verse does not ask us to be silent. It asks us to be helpful. Encouraging words, honest words spoken with love, and words of thanks all count. Think about the conversations ahead of you today. At home, at work, or online, what could you say that would give grace to the hearer? Ask the Holy Spirit to guard your mouth and to guide your speech. A few well-chosen words can lift a person for days. Words are small, but they carry weight.
Reflect
What is one conversation today where you could choose words that build up rather than tear down?
Pray
Lord, guard my lips and guide my words. Let what I say give grace to the people who hear it. In Jesus' name, amen.
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