Are my words edifying?

Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.-Ephesians 4:29 (NASB)

1. "Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth"

Paul urges believers to guard their speech. The Greek word translated "unwholesome" refers to something rotten or decaying—like spoiled fruit. It includes not only profanity, but also gossip, slander, sarcasm, bitterness, and anything that tears others down.

Words are leaves, the real fruit is in the heart. Be careful, then, that your speech reveals the grace that lives within. - Charles Spurgeon

What kind of words are “proceeding” from my mouth?

Are they healing or harmful?

2. "But only such a word as is good for edification"

Christian speech should be constructive, not destructive. “Edification” means building up. Words should act like tools to encourage, strengthen, and support others in their walk with Christ.

Corrupt communication is the language of the old man; gracious, edifying discourse is the language of the new man. Christians should be known by their wholesome speech. - Matthew Henry

Am I known by my wholesome speech?

3. "According to the need of the moment"

Timing and discernment matter. Not every good word is good at every time. Wisdom from the Holy Spirit helps us discern what someone needs in a specific moment—encouragement, truth, comfort, or silence.

What we say not only reflects our hearts, but also affects the hearts of others. Words can be healing or harmful—choose grace. - Warren Wiersbe

What does this person need right now?

Is it encouragement, challenge, truth, or just a listening ear?

4. "So that it will give grace to those who hear"

This is the goal: not just to speak kindly, but to be a channel of God's grace. Christian speech should reflect the love and compassion of Christ, bringing spiritual benefit to the listener.

A transformed heart produces transformed speech. Godly words flow from a godly life. - John MacArthur

Communication is not what I say, it is what others hear. - Frank Luntz

Let the words of my mouth
and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O Yahweh, my rock and my Redeemer. - Psalm 19:14 (LSB)

Be Encouraged to speak words that are acceptable in the sight of your Savior.



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