Our Words Affect Others

Are we careful about the things we say? We should be. The tongue has the power to build someone up or tear them down.

Many times we say something with one intent, not even realizing that the other person might be taking things the wrong way. Even when friends joke around, one person might kid the other and say things like "Wow, you are really stupid." This is meant all in good fun, which in most cases will be perceived this way. But, when something like this is said more frequently, it can start to sting like a dart. Not that the person receiving the words in jest will start believing them, but there exists a triviality that can be confusing and even damaging. Words can lose fun and significance in this situation and can evolve to being pointless and degrading. Paul makes note of this in Ephesians 4:29 - "Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them."

As Christians, we should use every opportunity we have to fellowship together and build one another up. The world offers us so much foul language - should we really add to it? We are ultimately responsible for everything that comes out of our mouth. Jesus says in Matthew 12:36 - "And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgement day for every idle word you speak. The words you say will either acquit you or condemn you."

The world does so much and Satan does so much to tear us apart and mess up our relationship with God and our fellow Christians. Our focus should be on building relationships and supporting each other in Christ every chance we get. We really should all try to be aware of what we say and how it could be affecting others.