Words that Build 

God on Monday
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‘Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear’ (Ephesians 4:29). 

Reflection

The productivity and results of our teams become especially important to us when we become leaders. We find we are responsible not only for our output but also for those of other people. Amidst deadlines, expectations and accountability measures, pressure can mount. That is when we risk saying things that tear down people and projects. The resulting damage can be made worse by office cultures pervaded by secretive unwholesome talk. 

For young people in our care, negative or harsh words can have a lifelong detrimental impact. After we utter words that convey the message ‘you will never amount to anything’, some of them may forge ahead with determination to prove us wrong. Others can feel crushed and hopeless. Either way, our words can leave an inner scar.

The verse above, and the passage in which it falls (Eph 4.25-5.2), is a profound reminder about the purpose and principles that need to determine our speech. Since words, once uttered, cannot easily be retracted, we need to take time to reflect on the implications of what we plan to say. Will it help or harm? Will it build up and empower, or tear down and deflate?

Response

Consider the situations in your sphere of work that may prove challenging or intense this week. Imagine positive and uplifting things you could say to mitigate demoralising conversations. Review your recent conversations with colleagues; do you need to say something that is more in keeping with this verse? Read the passage from which the verse above is taken (Eph 4.25-5.2) and commit to act accordingly.

Prayer

Almighty God, thank you for the leadership roles you have given us. Thank you for the strength and wisdom to carry them out. Help us to be more like you, and give us the grace to speak in love, despite the pressures. Guide us in all our meetings and conversations at work, so that we do not succumb to unwholesome talk, but speak in a way that builds up others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This Week's Author

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God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the next Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up here to receive each God on Monday instalment.

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