Church of the Hills

"A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver."                                                 Proverbs 25:11

As we start Day 3 of the Ephesians 4:29 Challenge, I want to remind all of us the goal of the challenge is not perfection or guilt if we mess up.  Rather, it is to create a greater sensitivity to the power of our words and conversations. It also is a reminder that our words are an indicator of what is happening in our hearts.

Yesterday as we looked at Ephesians 4:29, we saw two distinct categories for words in the verse.  "Corrupting" which literally means, "rotten and putrified". These words could be careless, thoughtless comments, or intentional harsh words, meant to inflict pain on the hearer. 

But there is another way to communicate.  A way that ADDS grace to another's life. Words that enrich the lives of others, words that are "good for building up." The word for "building up" in the original language of the New Testament, pictures the construction, or renovation or improvement of a home.  Do you ever watch the home improvement programs on HGTV? (These programs are dangerous and I must confess I don't like those handymen that can do all that stuff. I am dealing with my envy, really, I am). The designers on these programs are given a budget, come up with a concept for a home, a room, and/or addition, and develop a plan. They then purchase the necessary materials and get started on the project. Along the way, they make adjustments, but finally (and it does take longer than 30 minutes!) the project is completed.  Most of the time, these projects don't start with the designers wandering accidentally and aimlessly into Loews or Home Depot. They have a plan in mind before they go there.

In the same way, God has a plan for our words, "that it may give grace to those who hear." So, how do we do that? Have a plan, "as fits the occasion" (Ephesians 4:29c). Instead of my words being random, reckless and careless, I can speak with purpose and care, building into the lives of others. That means I take the time to assess the needs of others. I can then, express appreciation to others for the ways they have allowed God to use them to bless my life and the lives of others around them. I should look for opportunities to encourage others that are struggling in their walk with God. I should affirm in others the growth I see in their lives.  This means I take the time to think about others, and ways my words could add grace to their lives. What kind of "grace" words do the people I will see today need to hear?

You are probably thinking, "But, aren't there times that we need to say some difficult things to others? It is not all, compliments, praise and affirmation, is it?" If you are thinking that, you are correct.  We will talk about how to do this, and still be building others up, tomorrow.

Let's keep one another in prayer.

Randy

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