Holiness in Speech — Using Our Words to Glorify God

Holiness in Speech — Using Our Words to Glorify God

Main Texts: Ephesians 4:29; James 3:1–12; Colossians 4:6; Matthew 12:36–37; Proverbs 18:21

Introduction

Words are powerful.

A few words can encourage someone who is discouraged.

A few words can destroy someone’s confidence.

A sentence can heal a relationship.

Another sentence can break it.

Words can build trust.

Words can destroy trust.

That is why the Bible has so much to say about speech.

Christian holiness is not only about what we do with our bodies.

It is also about what comes out of our mouths.

Jesus Connected Speech to the Heart

Jesus said:

“For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.”

Our speech often reveals what is happening inside us.

When bitterness fills the heart, bitter words eventually appear.

When pride fills the heart, arrogant speech follows.

When love fills the heart, encouraging words become more natural.

Therefore, changing our speech requires more than learning polite vocabulary.

We need God to transform our hearts.

Words Can Build or Destroy

Proverbs says:

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue.”

Consider the different ways words can be used.

Words Can Encourage

“You can keep going.”

“God is with you.”

“I believe God has a purpose for your life.”

Words Can Destroy

“You will never succeed.”

“You are useless.”

“Nothing good will ever come from you.”

Sometimes people remember hurtful words for decades.

Avoid Gossip

Gossip can destroy relationships and reputations.

A Christian should be careful about discussing information that does not need to be shared.

Before repeating something, ask:

• Is it true?
• Is it necessary?
• Is it helpful?
• Would I say it if the person were present?
• Does repeating it honor God?

If the answer is no, silence may be wisdom.

Avoid Profanity and Corrupt Communication

Ephesians 4:29 teaches believers to avoid corrupt communication and instead speak words that build others up.

Our speech should be:

• Clean.
• Honest.
• Gracious.
• Encouraging.
• Wise.

This does not mean Christians can never confront wrongdoing.

Jesus confronted sin.

But He did so with truth and purpose.

Our Digital Speech Matters Too

Christian speech applies to:

• WhatsApp.
• Facebook.
• Instagram.
• X.
• YouTube comments.
• Text messages.
• Emails.

A Christian should not say:

“It was only online.”

If Christ is Lord of your life, He is Lord of your keyboard too.

Your online words should reflect the same character as your spoken words.

Biblical Illustration: Abigail

Abigail demonstrated wisdom through her words when David was angry and preparing to take revenge.

Her wise speech helped prevent bloodshed.

One woman’s words changed the direction of a dangerous situation.

That is the power of godly speech.

Application

Before you speak today, pause and ask:

“Will these words glorify God and build others?”

Practice:

• Encouraging someone.
• Apologizing where necessary.
• Refusing gossip.
• Speaking truth kindly.
• Controlling angry responses.

Let your mouth become an instrument of grace.

Shalom!