Speak In Love // Ephesians 4:29

Your words have power. You might think, “Who, little old’ me?” Of course! You can use your words to build up or tear down a person. Think about some of the stinging rebukes you’ve received in your life. A word or two has the ability to undo a lot of good will otherwise built up over years of relationship. The little ditty that says sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me couldn’t be more wrong. Words can inflict wounds on a loved one that will never fully heal. Frequently when you break a bone or get a deep cut, it will grow back stronger. Soul wounds are not the same. Our head and heart will erect barriers that we use to hide behind and keep out others who might hurt us similarly. That forces us into isolation, and our attempt at healing can make matters worse as we hold onto the hurt and refuse to let in others who can help…including God. Trust me, I speak from experience. So, make sure you focus on letting everything you say being good and helpful, even if it is correction and direction. Let everything you say be in love, even — if not especially — the truth (Ephesians 4:15).