Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God’s favour) to those who hear it.
Ephesians 4:29 AMPC
Words serve as acts in two distinct manners. Firstly, they act as results, representing the culmination and impact of various emotions and states of mind. When a person speaks passionately, they reflect their feelings, offering a glimpse into their thoughts and emotions. Secondly, words act as causes, leading to outcomes beyond the immediate moment. They can trigger emotions in others, producing either harmony or discord as they reverberate through time and space, impacting future generations and uncharted territories.
This verse focuses on the appropriate use of our words regarding the second acts. We know that the effect of every speech upon the hearer is as or perhaps more important than the speech itself. Therefore, every believer must take deliberate effort, ensuring that their speech is that which is of positive effect.
Let your speech at all times be gracious (pleasant and winsome), seasoned [as it were] with salt, [so that you may never be at a loss] to know how you ought to answer anyone [who puts a question to you].
Colossians 4:6 AMPC
Again, it is important for us to realize that our speech is another gift from God – we are all ministers, and at the heart of our ministering in speech is the need for it to be a blessing and give grace to the hearers. Different words for different occasions and needs, but all must produce grace.
Corrupt communications have a lasting impact, poisoning minds with harmful words and influences. Foolish praises, damaging advice, and worldly conversations can influence us negatively. Words not only harm others but also turn back upon the speaker, leading to anger, vanity, and deception. We should be cautious in our speech to avoid propagating evil tendencies.
Let there be no filthiness (obscenity, indecency) nor foolish and sinful (silly and corrupt) talk, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting or becoming; but instead voice your thankfulness [to God].
Ephesians 5:4 AMPC
Meanwhile, it is important to note that our words reflect our heart. Matthew 12:35 emphasises the profound connection between our words and the state of our hearts. Our speech are not merely random expressions but reflections of what lies within us. A person filled with goodness in their heart will naturally produce good words and actions. On the other hand, an evil person with a corrupted heart will exhibit words and actions aligned with their sinful nature.
Our speech have a revealing nature; they provide insight into the condition of our hearts. When we speak with love, kindness, and compassion, it shows that our hearts are inclined towards goodness. Conversely, bitter, deceitful, or malicious speech reveal evil within us.
This verse serves as a warning against hypocrisy. It would be impossible to conceal the true state of our hearts through mere pretence. Therefore, we must focus on cultivating a pure and righteous heart, seeking God’s transformational work within us. As we allow God’s goodness to fill our hearts, it will naturally overflow into our words and actions. As a result, it will bring positive and edifying influences on those around us.
In essence, our words are like fruits, and the heart is the tree from which they are produced. A healthy tree will bear good fruits, while a corrupted tree will yield bad fruits.
But I tell you, on the day of judgment people will have to give an accounting for every careless or useless word they speak. For by your words [reflecting your spiritual condition] you will be justified and acquitted of the guilt of sin; and by your words [rejecting Me] you will be condemned and sentenced.
Matthew 12:36-37 AMP
