Last night while I was on Facebook, I read an update from Smockity Frocks
about a lesson from her pastor about wholesome talk. He challenged his congregation to work on letting no unwholesome talk come from you, and also to build others up in your speech. It comes from Ephesians:
“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
Smockity Frocks then asked her readers if they would join in on the challenge. I immediately said yes. Then I got to thinking: Can I really do this? I'm going to be totally honest here. While at home, my speech has not been as wholesome as it should be. I admit to cussing some when I'm angry or frustrated. Not very ladylike and certainly not very Christ like. And as for building others up and benefiting them with my speech... that needs a little work too. I recognize it almost immediately most times and I feel horrible. I'm supposed to be a loving wife and mother, sister and daughter, and I have a sharp tongue at times. It's time to let go of that and move on to a better way of thinking and speaking.
The bible tells us in Philippians 4:13 that "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." I am claiming that promise to beat this. It's going to take prayer, study, and careful thought. Will you join me? I will try to update each evening on how I'm doing. You can comment here on my blog or you can join Smockity Frocks from the links above or the button on the right if it is working correctly.
How did you do today, Dottie? I had to stop myself mid-sentence a few times, and I am EXHAUSTED after thinking about every word!
ReplyDeleteI blogged about it last night and it should have shown up this morning. It's tough to do! So many times I had to catch myself before I said something that wasn't wholesome or uplifting. Today i've already slipped up at least once, but hubby is encouraging me. I'm hoping to blog about that later. Thanks for checking up on me! :)
DeleteHey Dottie! This is great. I have to remember that the scripture does say that the tongue is full of deadly poison, which no man can tame. (James 3) This helps me to be more forgiving of myself and others. We're never going to be perfect. Though, Nathanael may have been an exception. (John 1:47). Still, it's a goal to strive for and one we always need to be on our toes. I'll join you!
ReplyDeleteHi Sharon! Yes, that scripture kept going through my mind yesterday, or at least part of it. You're right, we are never going to be perfect. I'm so glad we don't have to be perfect because I for one would be in deep trouble! God is so forgiving. Thank you for joining me on this. Together we can do this. We may not totally master it, but surely we can get a lot better at our speech. :)
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