The way we speak to and about each other carries significant weight in shaping our relationships. Scripture offers guidance on this topic.

Speak Truthfully: The foundation of all godly communication is truth. Proverbs 12:22 tells us, “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are his delight.” Truthfulness honors God and fosters trust between people. Ephesians 4:25 reinforces this, saying, “Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.” The bond between believers, and even in families or friendships, grows strongest when it is built on honesty.

Truth-telling, however, must go hand in hand with wisdom. We are not to speak everything on our minds recklessly but what is helpful and necessary. Some have excused their rudeness by saying, “I told the truth.” Proverbs 15:28 says, “The heart of the righteous studieth to answer: but the mouth of the wicked poureth out evil things.” Speaking truth without care can do harm, but truth delivered thoughtfully builds others up.

Assume the Best in Others: Too often, we are quick to judge motives, which leads to misunderstanding and division. We ought to give others the benefit of the doubt. Colossians 3:12-13 encourages, “Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any.” Assuming the best about someone promotes unity, while assuming the worst can lead to resentment. Proverbs 18:13 reminds us, “He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him.” Taking time to understand is a reflection of wisdom and humility.

Speak Lovingly: Speaking the truth without love can damage relationships. Ephesians 4:15 instructs us to be “speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ.” When we speak lovingly, we are using our words to edify and encourage rather than tear down.

Proverbs 16:24 describes the power of loving words: “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” The way we say something can have a profound impact. Loving speech heals, uplifts, and brings peace to those who hear it.

Speak Kindly: Kindness should be evident in the way we communicate. Colossians 4:6 says, “Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.” Graceful speech is kind, considerate, and thoughtful, seeking to bless others rather than cause harm.

Proverbs 15:1 underscores the power of kind words, noting, “A soft answer turneth away wrath: but grievous words stir up anger.” When we speak kindly, we can defuse tension, ease conflict, and promote harmony. It is often through a gentle, kind word that we can turn situations around and make peace where there was previously strife.

The Bible clearly teaches that our speech matters. These principles, when applied, strengthen relationships and reflect our relationship in Christ. In a world where words are often used to divide, we have the opportunity to use ours to build others up, promote unity, and spread the love of God.

Agape,

Spencer

Spencer is an evangelist for the Franklin & Juniper St church of Christ in Borger Texas. We invite you to visit with us to learn about what God wants for our lives.