Words That Destroy

Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves. Look not every man on his own things, but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: -Php 2:3-5

I am amazed at the freedom we often feel to say anything we want at the expense of others.  Words that cut deep. Words that hurt. Words that are disparaging. Words meant to cause doubt. Words that pit one against another. And why?

Insecurity? Envy? Power?

What scripture shall we quote?  Do we really need to? We know what the tongue is capable of doing, don’t we?

We are called to be encouragers- people who build one another up. May I suggest to you, the first and primary way you will do this is with your words.  We are to bear one another’s burdens.  We are to pray for one another.  We are to consider others better than ourselves.  These are the Christ-like qualities we should be striving to possess.  That’s exactly what Christ did for us, did He not?  He considered you more valuable than His own life.  Can we do the same thing for others?  Consider Jesus upon the cross. He uttered nothing in retaliation, but gave us an example of how we should walk before others.

On the flip side, we need not jump to conclusions and become easily offended. We must be mature. We must be patient. We must be forgiving.  Again, sometimes things are said that were never intended to hurt.  But because we read something more into a given statement, we assume ill-intent, our feelings get hurt, and we harbor hard-feelings toward the offender.  This, too, is contrary to what Christ would have us to do.

When I was young, my mother often told me to “always assume the good in people”.  I know… a little cliche’-ish, nevertheless, it’s true.  When our intent is to interpret what we hear through the ears of envy and self-righteousness, it will always assume doubt and ill-will.  It will never build up.

Jesus has called us to peace. Make every effort to guard your tongue. Make every effort to bless others, not curse. Be an encourager, not a discourager.

It boils down to this… If humility is exhibited on both sides of an issue, peace will always prevail.  Be humble. Be your brother’s servant. If everyone does this, then nothing will stop the influence and work of the Lord.  All glory to God!

Blessing to you in the Lord!