Watch Your Words

Why Clean Speech Matters

Hey there, dear friends. I hope this message finds you well and thriving. Today, I want to chat about something that we all encounter daily—language. Specifically, let’s talk about the words we choose and why it’s important to be mindful of using clean language as followers of Christ. You see, our words hold power. They can uplift, encourage, and heal, but they can also wound, tear down, and corrupt. In Ephesians 4:29, Paul urges us, “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.” This isn’t just about avoiding curse words; it’s about recognizing the impact of our speech on those around us and choosing to speak life.

Foul language often becomes a habit, something we slip into without thinking. But imagine your words as seeds you plant in the hearts of others. What kind of fruit do you want to grow from those seeds? James 3:10 reminds us that, “Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” When we use foul language, we undermine our witness and the positive impact we can have as Christians. It’s like throwing mud on a beautiful painting—we obscure the image of Christ that we are meant to reflect.

Now, let’s get practical with some insights and recommendations for cultivating clean speech. First, be intentional about your vocabulary. Replace negative, harmful words with positive and encouraging ones. This might seem challenging at first, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Colossians 3:8 advises us to “rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” Think of your words as tools—use them to build up, not tear down.

Another key step is to immerse yourself in environments that promote clean language. Surround yourself with people who speak kindly and upliftingly. Proverbs 13:20 says, “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” By choosing friends and communities that value respectful and loving speech, you create a support system that encourages you to do the same. It’s like being in a garden where everything around you nurtures growth.

Lastly, remember that what we put into our minds and hearts inevitably comes out in our speech. Philippians 4:8 provides a great checklist for this: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Fill your mind with things that are good, and your words will naturally follow suit. This might mean choosing wholesome entertainment, reading uplifting books, or even memorizing scripture to guide your thoughts.

Consider the example of Peter, who despite his initial impulsive and sometimes coarse behavior, was transformed by his relationship with Jesus. In Acts 4:13, it is noted that people recognized Peter and John as having been with Jesus by their bold and gracious speech. Peter went from being a man who denied Christ with curses (Matthew 26:74) to a powerful proclaimer of the gospel. This transformation shows that change is possible for all of us through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Christian author and pastor, John Piper, speaks to the importance of our words in his book Desiring God. He writes, “Words carry immeasurable significance: by his word, God created the world; by our words, we worship and love others. By our words, we also wound and slander and divide.” Piper’s insight reminds us that our speech is a reflection of our hearts. Therefore, we must continually seek God’s help in purifying our hearts and, consequently, our words.

As you go about your day, remember this: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer” (Psalm 19:14). Aim to be a beacon of light through your words, spreading kindness, love, and grace to everyone you meet. We’re all on this journey together, and with God’s help, we can all strive to use our words to build each other up and reflect His love in everything we say.

Stay encouraged and keep striving for speech that honors God and blesses those around you. You’ve got this, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way!