Words That Give Grace

How can your words be more formed by grace?

Ephesians 4:29 

Let no evil talk come out of your mouths but only what is good for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear. 

There is a sad stereotype about church communities, which has proven true for so many: church people can be mean. People joined together in small communities that hold profound meaning to the people there take on the risk of becoming hurt, and in turn, acting out in hurtful ways. 

One common way this manifests is through gossip–speaking in ways that tear down others, most often when they are absent. Sometimes gossip is malicious, but most often it feels innocent or innocuous–yet it most always has harmful consequences. Communities are built upon trust, exercised by how people speak to and about each other.

Perhaps one of the most impactful theological principles for churches to cherish is that communities of grace depend on words that give grace: demonstrating encouragement, generosity of spirit (benefit of the doubt), forgiveness, and humility.

How can your words be more formed by grace?

— Evan Amo