“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.” — Ephesians 4:29, NIV
When we are examining our words and hearts, we must gauge whether our words are unwholesome or beneficial. The best way to do this is by turning to the Bible, our source of truth to see what it has to say about the difference between beneficial words and unwholesome talk.
Beneficial Words: Sweet to the Soul
“Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” — Proverbs 16:24
Ephesians 4:29 tells us that beneficial talk builds others up. Proverbs 16:24 tells us gracious words are a honeycomb. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” These are just a few of the many verses we can find relating to our words in the Bible.
So, when we are examining if our words are beneficial, we need to take a look at their purpose. Are we honoring and bringing thanks and glory to God? Are we benefiting others? Are we being gracious and loving with what we say?
If the answer is no, is our talk unwholesome? What is the purpose for our words?
Of course, we have average conversations all the time that are not clearly in either category. From what kind of food to buy at the store to when to plan an event, we frequently have ordinary everyday conversations. However, even in these conversations we can choose to honor God and others.
For instance, we can choose to encourage others when they are talking about a hard situation instead of comparing or feeding the negativity. Although this is an ordinary conversation, our perspective on it can help us choose our words wisely.
Unwholesome Talk
“But now you must also rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips.” — Colossians 3:8, NIV
How do we know if unwholesome talk is coming out of our mouths? If the words are coming from a place of anger or pride or fear, they could be unwholesome. If our words are not honoring to God, we should not be saying them. If our words are damaging to others, we should reexamine our intention and our hearts.
There is no set of guidelines that sorts every possible word or phrase into beneficial or unwholesome categories. That is where we must depend on Scripture and the Holy Spirit to guide us and give us the right hearts and words that are needed.
