Title

Small-Minded Words

Scripture
Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting...
(Ephesians 5:4)
Devotional
What we say and how we say it matters a great deal. Someone once said that profanity is a small mind’s way of expressing itself forcefully. Likewise, “He who knows the least, knows it the loudest.” I am convinced that vulgar language reflects a vulgar life, and that coarse jesting reflects the attitude of the heart. Yet these seem to be the norm of our day. Filthy language and foolish comments seem to be stylish, especially among our young people.
God says that these “are not fitting”. Our words ought to be such that we would be willing to speak them to anyone anywhere without embarrassment or insult. We are furthermore instructed, “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”(1) How is your language? Are you willing to speak it before a holy God? You do!

(1) Colossians 4:6
Thought For The Night
“Let all words be spoken for edification.” derived from 1 Corinthians 14:26. Tony Foglio, Founding Pastor of Sonrise Community Church.
 
Evening Text
Ephesians 5:4: Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor coarse jesting, which are not fitting….
Looking for Answers
Evening Study Guide
Defining: “Profanity”: Words used in a demeaning, vulgar, irreverent manner. The epitome of profanity is taking/using the Name of God in vain.
 
Referencing: “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in vain,” Exodus 20:7.
 
Applying: Words have meaning and some words are degrading to the hearer as well as the speaker. Therefore use words wisely and carefully. Jesus said, “For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12:37.