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

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. 1 Thes. 5:11

These instructions from Paul summarize what godly communication looks like. Let’s take these tips to heart and make some necessary changes in how we communicate to those we love and those we are trying to love. This month we are praying about communication in marriage. We take our cues from the Word of God, the manual for marriage and for life. What does this Scripture teach us about communication?

Don’t say anything unless it falls under the following criteria:

1. It promotes the well-being of the one I am speaking with.

2. It boosts and enhances the other person’s attitude, not weighing them down.

3. It makes a deposit, not a withdrawl, into their emotional bank account.

If what I say does not benefit the listener, then I am causing grief, not only to that person, but also to the Holy Spirit Himself. If my words hurt someone, they hurt God, too. Let’s make it a great day for others and a great day for God by speaking loving and positive words.

Father,

Please forgive me for speaking so many negative, critical, ugly and unnecessary words! I commit to obeying this Scripture as though it were the only one you’ve ever spoken to me. I make it my aim in life to speak words that agree with your word and your instructions. But I can’t do this with my own will power! I first need your power to transform my mind, and I submit myself to the process of transformation through renewing my mind by soaking it in your truth, in Your Word, in your presence, in worship, and in your love.

In Jesus’ Name, Amen