Sunday 27th April
Read Ephesians 4:29-32
“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. 30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. 31 Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. 32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (NIVUK)
We have reflected this week on the need to listen so that we remember and respond wisely to the circumstances we find ourselves in each day. It is a call to honour God with our ears.
The flip side of listening is to be careful with what we say. The words that come out of our mouths, that others hear, are powerful. James makes much the same point (James 3:1-12).
It is not simply the words we say either, it is the manner in which we say them. We are to speak both carefully and graciously, rather than rashly, sarcastically and with bitterness and anger.
How many things can you say today that build others up?
