“Why don’t they say good things? All they do is say bad things about the other person.” My 9-year-old watched the first ten minutes of the first presidential debate, and he couldn’t stand it. “Why don’t they say good things?” I didn’t know what to say. To be honest, I’m used to it. This is how we talk to each other today, isn’t it? With insults, with interruptions, with arrogance, with sarcasm. I’m part of it. You’re part of it. How did we get to this point? How did we get so used to letting our sinful natures run wild?
We need more 9-year-olds reminding us how Christians speak. Here’s God’s encouragement, “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” (Ephesians 4:29). What a difference from what we hear around us, isn’t it? God help us! Building each other up? Benefitting those who listen? How?
By hearing Jesus’ speak. We all need to hear Jesus speak more and more and more. When Jesus opened up his mouth, out flowed truth—all the time! When he spoke to the people around him, his words were always filled with care and concern—for their eternal welfare! When he talks to you and me—and sinners everywhere—he offers forgiveness and grace that we don’t deserve. Helpful words? Absolutely! Words that build us up? Yes! Words that benefit those who listen? Jesus’ words offer us salvation.
Fellow Christians, we have a chance to be different, to be Christ-like, in a world-changing way. To stand out in our society, you don’t need to do miracles. With a heart and mind filled with Jesus’ words, try this: “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.” People are watching and listening—like 9-year-old boys! Let’s say something good to benefit and build each other up today. We all need it!
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