Ephesians 4:29-32 — 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. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

Yesterday I encouraged you to reflect on times you have made judgments about others. Today’s photo is another taken from my airplane window. What a different perspective! Again today I encourage you to step back to gain a new perspective and insight. Today I want you to examine the words you say and the manner in which you say them. Especially reflect on the intent of your words. For example, do you spread gossip in a way that is disguised as “prayer concerns”? Have you shared another’s unfortunate circumstances with others and sprinkled in your own opinion and judgments? Be honest with yourself. Have your words about others stemmed from a self-righteous attitude? What was your intent?

After my recent experiences with gossip spread about my family, my senses have been heightened. God has revealed to me times I have been the deliverer of gossip disguised as a prayer request. I realize the intentions of my words have not always been pure and I have become very aware of the weight of my words. I pray that you, too, will be honest with yourself. Admit any wrongdoings and ask God for forgiveness. Tuck God’s word from Ephesians 4:29-34 in your heart and allow those words to shape your words. Ask the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts and words and be very sensitive to your intentions for sharing news about another.

Let’s pray. Dear God, Open my eyes to my use of words. Show me my wrongdoings and forgive me for impure intentions. May Your Holy Spirit guide and direct my thoughts and words. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.