Introductory Thoughts
A basic definition of communication involves making things common. When we speak to others, we express what is in our minds and hearts making those thoughts common with others. The Bible warns the believer in Ephesians 4:29 to “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” The words that come out of our mouths should edify or build up others, not demean and degrade them. They should be strengthened by what we say. Keep in mind that corrupt communications weaken the believer (1 Corinthians 15:33). This is why Christians are instructed to put off all “filthy communication” (Colossians 3:8).
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): Psalm 34:13a says, Keep thy tongue from evil. We should say good things to others with our mouths. We can't do this by ourselves (James 3:8). God has to help us (Psalm 141:3) by setting a watch about our mouths and helping us to keep it shut.
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(For everyone): Do your words edify or corrupt others? Do you allow filthy things to come out of your mouth or does all of your language bring glory to God?
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What are some things that you could say to others that would edify them? How could your words help a brother or sister in Christ better serve the Lord?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask the Lord to help you edify others.
- Ask the Lord to give you wisdom in your communications.
Song
Beloved of the Lord
