Being Careful With Words

We have all heard the saying … “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me!” But is that statement really true?

It has been my experience that careless, harsh, belittling, judgmental words do hurt! In fact, some of us have the tendency to “replay” those hurtful words over and over again in our minds and therefore the pain can linger long after they have been spoken.

With that personal realization, it is not surprising that a chapter of the Bible emphasizing the importance of Christian Unity concludes with the following words: 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. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you. Ephesians 4:29-32 NIV

Are you being careful with the words that you use in conversation and correspondence with others? Are you making every effort to build others up around you? Have you been grieving the Holy Spirit with the words you have been using in your communication with others? Are there any words that you need to get rid of in your vocabulary? Do your words reflect kindness and compassion to others?

Let’s be careful with the words we use with others. It does make a difference!!


Family Devotional
Sit down with your children and ask them the following questions: “Have you heard the saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me”? Do you think that this statement is true or false? Can you think of a time that you were hurt by someone’s words? Can you think of a time that you hurt someone else with your words?

Read Ephesians 4:29-32. Discuss and identify any recent words used by members of the family that are “unwholesome words.” Discuss practical ways that each member of the family can use words to be helpful to others. Conclude the devotional with everyone sharing something positive about each member of the family and then a prayer thanking God for His encouraging Word!