Day 15 - Relating in Goodness

“Do not use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”  
​Ephesians 4: 29

​Meditate or Reflect
So many of our communal spaces have become hostile grounds where language is careless, hurtful, reactive, and abusive; certainly, in the political arena, social media, also at work and in schools, at home, and even among Christians harshly defending theological differences. Name-calling, shaming rhetoric, aggressive speech to tear others down, vulgar language – it seems to be everywhere. The words coming from our culture often are not good. One of our primary focuses in relationship must be the care of each other’s soul, including the language we use. Sarcasm, unkind nicknames, course language, abusive and intimidating language is neither good nor helpful. Instead, we should be intentional about the words we use as a good encouragement to those who hear them. Take a breath and think of areas in your life where you have given or received good and encouraging words. Are there any situations or relationships where goodness is a challenge?  Reflect on the goodness of God and let His goodness be a guide. Recall to your mind the many ways God speaks goodness over you – calling you redeemed, beloved, friend.