Ouch!

Ephesians 4:29              The Passion Translation

And never let ugly or hateful words come from your mouth, but instead let your words become beautiful gifts that encourage others; do this by speaking words of grace to help them.

Wow! After yesterday’s Word of the Day on encouragement, this verse speaks volumes. Words are the cornerstones of encouragement. One side of this verse is probably what you thought of yesterday when reading on encouragement. That is to specifically and intentionally say things which will bring encouragement and uplifting thoughts to others.

The other side of encouragement is not saying “ugly or hateful” words. So, here is the way I would like to look at that. This goes beyond not saying hateful words to a person about themselves. That’s kind of a no brainer. Never tell anyone they are stupid or ugly, etc. Only tell them truthful good things about themselves. And, as we discussed yesterday, it is important to be intentional about that. Compliment people on what you see them doing well.

Sometimes, the “ugly” words are not specific to that person. I think some of the good you can do with your words has to do with trying not to be negative generally. For example, don’t complain incessantly about the weather. Don’t put down other people. Don’t be critical and judgmental. If you will find things to speak positively about, it will be uplifting to the people around you. You will find that you build them up rather than tear them down. Just speaking ugly or hateful words about anything pulls down the people who hear it. Even if you are right, it still fills the space with negative energy rather than positive. People will rather be around you and will feel better in general if you fill the space with positive words.

Your words are beautiful gifts. They can change a person’s day and even their life. Never let ugly or hateful words come out of your mouth. Allow only those lovely thoughts be expressed and thereby be an encouragement to others.