Wholesome, Beneficial Words

Ephesians 4:29 says, “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.”

Unbelievers may reject our words, but we can still speak them graciously and unashamedly (Matthew 10:22; Colossians 4:6; Luke 9:26). 

There's nothing wrong with disagreeing with someone, but we should always check our motives before speaking (Luke 6:45). Our goal should be to benefit and build up others (1 Thessalonians 5:11).

Sometimes benefiting others means giving constructive criticism. This isn’t a popular idea in the modern church, but it’s a Biblical idea (Proverbs 28:23; Luke 17:3; 2 Timothy 3:16-17; James 5:20).

However, we must first judge our own sins to avoid hypocrisy (Matthew 7:1-5), and we should make sure we're motivated by love for those we correct (Ephesians 4:15).

Whether words of encouragement or correction, let's pray that our words are wholesome, beneficial, and pleasing to the Lord (Psalm 19:14). 
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