Hi ladies! I hope you are ready to take some time, breathe, and just be with Jesus. Open your Bibles and read Luke 6:45 & Ephesians 4:29. “What leaves our mouths reveals the condition of our hearts.”
Our words hold immense power—they can heal or harm, uplift or tear down. In a world where obscenity and cussing have become normalized, many people see gracious speech as outdated or unnecessary. Society often suggests that using unwholesome language is “keeping it real” or that refraining from cussing makes someone a “goodie two-shoes.” Yet as Christians, we’re called to a higher standard, and Jesus clearly teaches us that how we speak deeply influences our relationship with Him.
Luke 6:45 tells us, “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” The words we choose are a direct reflection of what resides within us. Speaking graciously requires a heart transformed by God’s love and aligned with His will. Ephesians 4:29 urges us to be intentional with our words: “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.” Imagine the impact of speaking words that strengthen and encourage others—a refreshing alternative to the negativity often found in daily interactions. Colossians 2:8 warns us not to be led astray by worldly norms: “See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” This verse reminds us that we should not conform to society’s casual acceptance of vulgar language but instead honor Christ through our speech. Ephesians 5:4 offers further guidance: “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” Speaking graciously isn’t just about avoiding cussing; it’s about shifting our focus to words of gratitude and praise—words that glorify God and spread joy. Colossians 4:6 adds, “Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Graceful speech allows us to engage others in a way that reflects God’s wisdom and love. When our words are seasoned with grace, they invite connection, understanding, and truth.
In today’s culture, where cussing is often seen as authentic or rebellious, choosing to speak graciously may feel countercultural. But as followers of Christ, our words should set us apart and be a testament to our faith. Jesus calls us to speak with love, humility, and thanksgiving, using our words to build bridges rather than barriers. So, how can we rise above the pressures of this world? By seeking His strength daily, reflecting on His Word, and allowing our hearts to overflow with goodness. Speaking graciously is not about perfection but about intentionally aligning our hearts—and our words—with God. What steps will you take today to let your speech honor God? Let’s strive together for conversations full of grace and truth.
Let’s discuss what we just learned. I have some questions that I want you to think about, write them down, and if you’d like to comment below, we can discuss them together!
- Focus on Ephesians 5:4. What makes thankfulness more suitable for followers of Christ than obscene and foolish talking?
- How can you point others to Christ by the way you speak?
- Spend some time in prayer. Ask the Lord to reveal anything in your heart that is leading you to rotten speech. Confess these things to Him and ask that He fills your heart with what is pleasing to Him.
“May the words we speak point others to the One who has transformed our hearts and lives.”
Today’s verse for Lent prayer is Romans 5:1-2 and the prayer prompt is, “Pray that you will boast only in the hope of God’s glory today and rejoice over the peace you have with God through Christ.”
I hope you enjoy this study and decide to come back. Tomorrow we will discuss Living Out Our Freedom. I hope you enjoy the beautiful sunset that was made by our loving Father and y’all have a wonderful night.
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