Looking through my archives, I realize that I’ve written a number of posts talking about the evils of gossip and, as Paul called it, “corrupt communication.” But today I want to do something a little different and, instead of looking at how we shouldn’t talk, I want to take a moment and share with you some Scriptures that present Christians with another, more holy, alternative.

“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.”

                      -Ephesians 4:29

Throughout chapter four of Ephesians, Paul listed several things Christians ought to avoid. Among these are dishonesty, theft, foul language, and resentment toward others (Eph. 4:25, 28, 29, 31-32). But if you look even more closely, you’ll see that each of these sins are to be not merely removed, but replaced. Dishonesty is to be replaced by the truth; theft is to be replaced by hard work and generosity; and resentment by forgiveness and longsuffering. As I’ve mentioned before, it’s not enough to simply avoid evil; we must pursue righteousness. That message is clearly integrated into this chapter, and Paul lets us know that to just avoid foul language isn’t enough either. That which is “good the use of edifying” must take its place!

Perhaps you’ve overcome the temptation to gossip, but are you actively edifying those around you with your words? Do you encourage those who need encouraged, comfort those who need comfort, and correct those who need correction? I know this is one area in which I fall drastically short. Too often we are quick to point out the negative which, though it does sometimes need pointed out, can quickly cause a fellow Christian to stumble if all they ever hear about is their mistakes. If someone succeeds more than they fail, then why are we more prone to point on their downfalls than their virtues?

“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt…”

                    -Colossians 4:6

Whatever we say, we are commanded that it be both edifying and full of grace. That doesn’t mean God will only call us to speak words of peace and joy, but that, when we do speak, He should be shining through us. If He’s not, then chances are what we’re saying falls under the category of “corrupt communication.”