June 8, 2017: SOAP #2744: Ecclesiastes 7-9; Ephesians 4

Scripture:  Ephesians (NIV) 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

Observation:   As I understand the priorities of my Christian life, first is my relationship to Jesus.  Second could be How I think.  My thoughts must be brought into line with the Word and my growing knowledge of God.  Third would be how I talk.  Faith without works is dead.  True faith will always find some expression.  Although not the only expression, words are most often the first expression of our faith.

This verse clearly implies that there will be temptation to give voice to words that tear down rather than build up.  We will see things; and the enemy will bring things to our attention that seem so important; we are tempted to gossip.  As we mature in our Christian life, we resist that temptation.

It is amazing how harmful partial truth can be.  Although it is true, it can be very unwholesome.

Application:  The purpose of my speech is to build up those who hear.  I need to build them up according to THEIR needs, not mine or someone else’s needs.   Did Jesus ever perform a miracle without speaking?  I do not think so.  And God wants to use my words to minister His grace.

Prayer:   Holy Spirit, help me to speak words, in prayer and in conversation, that can be used to build faith and accomplish your plan.  Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!