Building One Another  

Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.  I Thessalonians 5:11

Apples of Gold – Words Matter!

Dear Friend,

One of most beautiful things written about speech is in the Book of Proverbs: “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.”  Proverbs 25:11*

To say the right word, the helpful word, the encouraging, correcting, guiding, blessing word, is like apples of gold set forth in a stunning and beautiful way.

Our words matter, especially when the right word is said in the right way (inflection and tone of voice) and in the right moment.

Reflect for a moment on the nature of your own speech.

Do your words reveal you to be a blesser, builder, encourager, teacher, counselor, consoler and friend?

Do your words show you disliking, disassociating with and demeaning those you disagree with?

Perhaps, like many of us, you are a little bit of all of these things, the up-builder and the tear-downer with your words.

“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*

Allow the Holy Spirit to be the Master of your tongue so that what you say, when you say it, and how you say it may build people and honor your Lord like apples of gold in a setting of silver.

Joy to you -- E. Stanley Ott        

© Copyright 2020 E. Stanley Ott

Scripture from the ESV

‍

Reflect on your own speech - the words you use and how you say them, your tone of voice - and reflect on your speech in different situations - when you are wanting to affirm or disagree or express concern and so on. Do your words build up or demean, do they instill strength or tear people down?

If you have disassociated with someone because of disagreement or have demeaned and denigrated them, how will you practices the words of Romans 12:18: insofar is it is possible, live at peace with all people. Is there a reconciliation you need to pursue, a restoring of relationship? That does not mean you have to agree but it does mean renewing a connection so there is peace between you.