Use words to build up, no tear down

Psalm 19:14 speaks about our words being acceptable or pleasing to God.
Let’s think about our words. Not only do we speak words, we also type them and we read them. We use words all the time.
When we are using words, what are we saying with them? What impact do our words have on those who hear or read them each day? Do our words bless or do they curse? Do our words build up or do they tear down? Do we hold back our words when we should speak? Do we speak too quickly when we should listen?
There is a lot to think about when it comes to words. Words are powerful and can make a positive or negative difference in another person’s life.
What we also need to understand is that our words reveal to the world what we value and what we don’t value. That means we all need to think about what we are communicating. Are the words that we say pleasing in the sight of the Lord?
Let’s face it. There are a lot of painful and wasted words used in our culture. It is hard to hear words that don’t glorify God and hurt others. Whether it is on social media or in personal conversations, we can all point out where someone else’s words have stung and been hurtful to our feelings.
If we are honest, we have to admit that each of us has spoken or written words that hurt other people, who have been created in the image of God.
How can we use our words productively? What kind of words do you think would be pleasing in God’s sight?
We use our words productively when we speak praises to God and declare His glory. We use our words productively when we respect one another and use our words to build up instead of tear down. Our words can be used productively when we share the hope we have in Jesus, explaining to our neighbors the difference that He has made in our life.