Author Darlene J. Conard

Imagine a world where kindness is the norm for everyone. While cleaning my apartment this morning, I reflected on how simple acts of kindness can create a ripple effect, transforming our world and ourselves.

The Bible emphasizes the profound impact that words can have, highlighting their incredible power to shape thoughts, influence actions, and transform lives. Each word carries weight, and its effects can resonate deeply with individuals, making a positive or negative change. Words can either build up or tear down.

Ephesians 4:29 says, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.”

In the Greek language, the term for “corrupt speech” can be expressed as “sapros” or “phtheiró.” These words summarize the idea of moral decay, highlighting the emptiness of certain words and the troubling actions that often accompany them. Such speech and behavior lack ethical value and can undermine the integrity of communication and relationships. They indicate a more profound moral corruption that affects both the speaker and the listener.

We live in an era when the boundaries of acceptable language seem to have faded. Society appears increasingly indifferent to profanity and the harmful effects of tarnishing someone’s reputation. The normalization of such attitudes has led to a culture where the power of words is often underestimated, and the consequences of their misuse are overlooked.

While expressing the truth is undoubtedly essential and commendable, what truly matters is the attitude and intent accompanying those words.

God has graciously given us the remarkable gift of speech, allowing us to express heartfelt praise and sincere gratitude to Him. Our words can transform difficult situations and dispel negativity, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with positivity and hope.

We must continually acknowledge that the words we choose to speak—whether uplifting or critical—carry significant weight and can profoundly influence the lives of those around us. Our language can inspire, comfort, motivate or, hurt, discourage, and diminish. Being mindful of our words creates a positive environment and fosters more profound connections with others.

“Put them in mind to be subject to principalities and powers, to obey magistrates, to be ready to every good work, To speak evil of no man, to be no brawlers, but gentle, shewing all meekness unto all men. For we ourselves also were sometimes foolish, disobedient, deceived, serving divers lusts and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful, and hating one another.But after that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; Which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour; That being justified by his grace, we should be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men.” Titus 3:1-8 KJV

 Feel free to forward it to anyone you wish.  My mission is to encourage everyone to follow our Lord Jesus Christ with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength. ©Darlene J. Conard Vision Ministries 2024.   This may not be republished or used without the author’s written consent. The photograph is AI-generated. Darlene J. Conard is also affiliated with Glory Carrier Ministries.

• BLOG