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Opportunity of Our Words
by Steve Troxel (Steve's bio)
[Note: If you'd like to read more from Steve, be sure to visit God's Daily Word.]
Everything we say has an effect on those around us. The effect is either positive or negative - very rarely are our words neutral.
Ephesians 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."
This means that every time we speak, we have the opportunity to encourage - an opportunity to minister. With just a few moments of our time and very little effort, we have the opportunity to brighten someone's day, to lighten the load they may be carrying, and possibly draw them closer to God. This precious opportunity must not be taken lightly.
Proverbs 18:13
"He who answers before listening - that is his folly and his shame."
Before we speak, we must listen very carefully. What is the real question? What are the real needs? We may only be allowed a few words - make sure they will be useful: "The heart of the righteous weighs its answers, but the mouth of the wicked gushes evil." (Proverbs 15:28).
Our words can be a very effective source of encouragement, but they can also be used to cause great harm. "Like a madman shooting firebrands or deadly arrows is a man who deceives his neighbor and says, 'I was only joking!'" (Proverbs 26:18-19). Sarcastic and joking words are "deadly arrows" which are never useful for "building others up." Over time, this mode of communication will destroy a relationship.
Our words are a powerful gift. Let's honor our Heavenly Father by effectively using this gift to encourage. Let's speak so that those who listen may benefit and be built up. Let's not squander the opportunity of our words!
Copyright 2001, Steve Troxel. All Rights Reserved. Used by permission.
| About Steve Troxel: Steve Troxel is the President of God's Daily Word Ministries. Steve was trained as an Electrical Engineer and received his PhD in 1994. After working as a researcher in a laser laboratory for several years, Steve felt the call from God to leave his trained profession and enter into full-time ministry. His devotionals are now sent around the world via email as well as distributed in book format. More information about this ministry as will as a "sign-up" page can be found at: http://www.godsdailyword.org |