Watch What You Say, 1 Corinthians 16:17-18
Most of us have no idea how much other people’s emotions, self-esteem and hopes are influenced by what we say. Paul said, “Stephanas, Fortunatus, and Achaicus…for what was lacking on your part they supplied (have been a wonderful encouragement to me)” ( If you have never heard of them, it’s because most encouragers hate being the center of attention. They’re happy to work in a support role. But without them very little would get done. The opposite of giving encouragement is spreading discouragement, and Paul says, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29 NKJV). Jesus said, “But I say to you that for every word men may speak, they will give account of it in the day of judgment…by your words you will be justified…by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36-37 NKJV). What you say can never be taken back, and it will be used as evidence for or against you one day. Dr. Thomas Blackaby points out: “Words…can leave scars for a lifetime, and many people will never forget some of the things you’ve said to them, both good things, such as words of encouragement, and bad things, such as criticism and rebuke…Make the best possible use of words so they bring blessings on others.” So, are your words encouraging? Can it be said there’s nothing crooked or perverse…in them” (Proverbs 8:8 NKJV)? Ask God to “Set a guard…over [your] mouth” (Psalm 141:3 NKJV) so whatever you say glorifies Him and lifts others up.
Till He comes…
Bro. Johnny, Phil. 1:6