We must watch our speech as we are confronted with adversity. It is easy to be cordial when there is no pressure but when it does come, how do you respond, out of emotion or by THE SPIRIT? In Ephesians chapter 4 Paul wrote:
29 Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
Our words should be consistent in bringing others to Spiritual maturity. Sometimes correction is needed, sometimes instruction is necessary, and other times simply and encouraging word is all that is required. As we become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit we will speak the right Word at the right time according to THE SPIRIT and it will produce and/or promote life in the recipient. As we take control of our tongue and become more sensitive to the Holy Spirit, we will consistently minister life to others.
30 And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Paul urges us to be led by THE SPIRIT in all things for our words express Life or promote death and destruction. Our words can create emotional scars in others that are not soon forgotten. There are those who would challenge every word you speak but let not their wayward acts move you to speak from a frustrated emotional state.
31 Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice.
Each of us must assess the words we speak to others. Do they build up or tear down? There are times where you must speak forth a word of correction in order for the hearer to repent of their current path but let it be done in Love and in THE SPIRIT. They may be offended but let that offense arise out of the power of FATHER’S Word and not your emotional state. The Truth is the standard and people will be convicted of the Truth. You may be called to correct but let it be done without your emotions dictating the method of delivery. If necessary, hold your tongue until your emotions are in check. Paul reminds us:
32 And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you.
We must all consider our own humanity. We judge others by their actions yet we judge ourselves by our intent. By considering the fact that our own walk has been less than pristine we must always consider grace and mercy in our delivery. Jesus put it this way In Luke chapter 6:
41 And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not perceive the plank in your own eye?
42 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Brother, let me remove the speck that is in your eye,’ when you yourself do not see the plank that is in your own eye? Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck that is in your brother’s eye.
When we speak to others we must be ever aware of the source of our intent. Does it arise from logic, emotion, or by the Holy Spirit? As we pursue the fullness of HIS SPIRIT abiding and operating in us and through us we will by HIS Nature build others up. Let our words convey Love and life to the hearer and let each encounter provide some aspect of growth toward Spiritual maturity.
All of us have a ministry to build others up toward Spiritual maturity and this is done by pursuing the path of Love. In Proverbs chapter 3:
12 For whom the LORD loves He corrects,
Just as a father the son in whom he delights.
There are words for correction, others for encouragement, but all words should have an intent to build others up. Let our words produce life!