Speaking Words That Build

Believers are not to speak aimlessly, carelessly, or foolishly. We are to speak purposely, to build up one another in love and Christian maturity. How do we do this? Edifying speech begins by speaking the truth in love, and learning how to do so in a spirit of wisdom. If we tend toward mercy, we must remember that love sometimes means speaking difficult truths. And if our tendency is to speak truth, we must likewise remember that love is also demonstrated by a willingness to sacrifice time and effort to help them to hear and understand it. We must learn not to speak out of our assumptions, but to proceed with patience, asking insightful questions and learning how to discern the difference between the unruly, the faint-hearted, and the weak. We must learn to counsel with words that are well chosen and few, demonstrating the work of grace in our hearts and imparting wisdom and grace to our hearers. Are you actively seeking to edify those around you and influence them to godliness? Begin by cultivating a heart of love.