There was this prayer meeting I took part in and one of the thoughts that emerged from it was how important it was to use our words to build others. We were reminded of what Paul said to the church in Ephesus about communication.
The verse has been used by some to condemn swearing. I can see where they’re coming from, but it is a lot more than just prohibiting curse words. It’s an active invitation to consider what we’re using our words for. It’s tragic to hear some use their words in an attempt to bring down others, either in anger, in malice or in gossip. No swear words are used at all and sometimes some very pious and religious terms are used in conversations that appear well meaning but are just a front for the sort of corrupting communication Paul writes about.
It is my honour to be around people who bring out the blessings in the other part of Paul’s instruction. They stir me to practice using my words to build. They challenge me on this because there is a need. A need for the constructive. As they face new challenges – they need the constructive. As they face current challenges – they need the constructive. As they go through seasons of uncertainty – they need the constructive.
They need it and the same God who speaks the constructive in us, can use us to speak the constructive in others. It’s not about being cheerleaders all the time, the constructive isn’t about flattery or being charming. It’s about being substantial in encouraging the same to those who need it. There’s so much of it we can do if we remain focused on dwelling and meditating on the true, noble, right, pure, excellent, admirable and praiseworthy – something Paul encouraged the church in Philippi to practice.
I am a beneficiary of those who speak constructively on my life and certainly know it’s well worth pursuing in practice.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
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