“Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29 NLT
I do not like to tease Famous, but I did have fun recently as I gave back one of his favorite stuffed toys after it had been through the washing machine. “Blue” never has made a sound, not even by way of a concealed “squeaker.” It just passively lets Famous dote on it, toting it around the house, sharing his doggie bed, and often carrying it out into the yard as one of the few privileged toys that gets to enjoy the sunshine.
But as I presented the stuffed dog back to him, I gave it several little leaping motions while I made what must have been a fairly convincing dog bark. After about the third bark Famous began to wonder if his puppet had come to life, and he wanted in on the action. (He must have figured out I wanted to play with him, or else I can make a very convincing dog bark!) But like I said, I do not like to tease Famous, so seconds later I surrendered Blue to him for inspection, and Blue soon found his way back to the bed.
How often do our words hurt rather than help? How often do we “share” articles on social media without verifying their validity? How often do we speak from our own needs rather than offering to assist our neighbor in his need?
As God is good, so it is that we cannot reflect God’s goodness with words which are foul, untruthful, or hateful. Yes, there is a time for hate, but only for those things which do not encourage others or serve God.
Jesus, let my speech be helpful and uplifting today.
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