29Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.
I haven't posted anything under "Sabbath Thoughts" for a long while now. It's not that I don't have any thoughts on the Lord's Day any more :-) Getting those thoughts on paper, or onto a post is another matter. As mentioned previously, our household has expanded and having little guys about once again, has changed the way our days progress, the availability of the computer and my own ability to think in any sort of sensible order!
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We've had many challenging messages from Ephesians over a year or so now and the end of chapter 4 is no exception. The putting on of the new man, the new way of life we live as believers. As we looked at verse 29 this morning, I was struck anew by the great influence we wield as wives and mothers in our homes. We are the heart and the tone setters for our household. That little member, the tongue, can bless and caress or it can wound...painfully.
Pastor spoke of the three logical themes from the verse as Eroding, Edifying and Elevating.
Let us purpose this week to never use our words to put some one down, to hurt and to burden. Rather, let our communication be to lift up and encourage those around us. Let us minister the gracious love and forgiveness of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and glorify him in all of our dealings, who ever our hearers may be.
With that thought in mind I will re post this little poem, which I have mentioned before, has been around in my family for quite a few years. Seventy at least.
Keep watch on your words my loved one,
For words are wonderful things.
They can bless like the warm glad sunshine,
And brighten a lonely life.
They can cut in the strife of anger,
Like an open two-edged knife.
Keep them back if they are cold and cruel,
Under bar and lock and seal,
The wounds they make are very deep,
And very slow to heal.......
One of the joys of babies in the house is that "happy" time in the morning when everyone greets one another on first rising. I remember it fondly from my own childhood and have tried to give my own family that same bright and cheery start to the day. Now, with little ones up and raucous in the morning, sometimes quite early, it is challenging us all once again to start the day in a positive way!
And how could one not be cheerful in the morning with this little cutie around?!
Have a wonderful week, all.
Have a wonderful week, all.
Love that Scripture and the grandbaby is so sweet. Great idea to greet family in the morning.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great reminder to watch how we speak. It seems to become a greater challenge as life speeds up around here :) Love the pic of your cute grandson! xx
ReplyDeleteYes, the tongue can would or heal & those of us who are deft with it need to particularly watch our words. ☺ Blessings, my friend. Long time, no chatee.
ReplyDeleteLove that poem. I will print it out and pop it on my desk as a reminder, I think.
ReplyDeleteYes, that is one very cute boy.
So glad to hear from you. Blogland is a little lonely right now!
Your blog today goes well with mine today -Both about holding the tongue and watching what we say. Sounds easy but sadly so many of us, including myself, really struggle with this. I am always telling my sons "think before you speak" and "if you wouldn't want it said to you, do say it to others". Once said, it can not be taken back.
ReplyDeleteHave a lovely week:)