“Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” – Ephesians 4:29 (NLT).

Words are a powerful gift from God, carrying the ability to build up or tear down. Proverbs 18:21 reminds us that “the tongue can bring death or life” (NLT). As followers of Christ, our speech should glorify God and bless others, reflecting His love and truth. Jesus teaches that our words reveal our heart’s condition: “What you say flows from what is in your heart” (Luke 6:45, NLT). To speak life, we must align our hearts with God through prayer and surrender to the Holy Spirit. This empowers us to avoid gossip, speak truth in love, and choose kindness over harshness. The apostle Peter connects godly speech to a joyful life: “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil” (1 Peter 3:10, NLT). Similarly, James compares the tongue to a spark that can ignite a forest fire (James 3:5). Though small, the tongue’s power is immense, requiring us to seek God’s help to control it.

To honor God with our words employ these simple tips:

Pray for Guidance

Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and speech daily.

Pause Before Speaking

Reflect on whether your words are true, kind, and necessary.

Guard Your Heart

Fill it with God’s Word to influence your conversations positively.

Seek Accountability

Surround yourself with people who encourage uplifting communication.

Speak Intentionally

Choose words that build up and encourage others. Through Christ, we have victory to tame our tongues and speak life. When we submit our words to the Holy Spirit, He equips us to reflect His love, strengthen relationships, and bring glory to God.

Prayer

Lord, purify my heart and guide my words today. Help me speak with kindness, truth, and love to glorify You. Amen. The apostle Peter connects godly speech to a joyful life: “If you want to enjoy life and see many happy days, keep your tongue from speaking evil” (1 Peter 3:10, NLT).