Daily marriage devotionals for growing Christian marriages

Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but such as is good for building up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear. (Ephesians 4:29 WEB

The Greek text of this verse uses several words to describe the attributes of the speech that is being encouraged. Here is a brief explanation of these attributes:

• “Corrupting” (πονηρά) - This word is used to describe talk that is morally corrupt, wicked, or evil in nature. It implies that the speech being discouraged is harmful or destructive in some way.

• “Good” (αγαθά) - This word is used to describe talk that is morally good, beneficial, or constructive in nature. It implies that the speech being encouraged is positive and helpful in some way.

• “Building up” (οἰκοδομή) - This word refers to the act of building or constructing something. In this context, it implies that the speech being encouraged is intended to build up or strengthen the listener in some way.

• “Fits the occasion” (συμφωνητικός) - This word means “to agree” or “to be in harmony” and it implies that the speech being encouraged is appropriate for the situation or context in which it is being spoken.

• “Grace” (χάρις) - This word refers to the unmerited favor and kindness of God, which is the source of salvation and sanctification. In this context, it implies that the speech being encouraged is intended to impart grace to the listener in some way.

Thus we see Ephesians 4:29 encourages believers to use constructive speech that is morally good and beneficial, intended to build up and strengthen the listener, fitting the occasion, and that imparts grace to the listener. It discourages destructive speech that is morally corrupt, wicked, or evil in nature.

As we reflect on this verse, let’s focus on the word “THINK” as an acronym for thoughtful and considerate Christian conversation in our marriage.

T - Truthful: As we strive to be truthful in our words, let’s remember that honesty and transparency are essential for building trust and intimacy in our marriage. Let’s commit to being honest and truthful in our communication, and avoid spreading rumors or lies. Remember that the truth will always be revealed in the end.

H - Helpful: As we speak, let’s focus on being helpful to our spouse. Our words should build up and encourage our spouse rather than tearing them down. Let’s make sure our words are not just for our benefit, but for the benefit of our spouse.

I - Inspiring: As we speak, let’s strive to be inspiring. Let’s share words of encouragement, hope, and inspiration with our spouse. Let’s remind our spouse of the love and grace of God through our words.

N - Necessary: Let’s be mindful of the words we speak and speak only what is necessary. Let’s avoid unnecessary or unkind words and remember that our words have the power to affect our spouse.

K - Kind: Let’s be kind in our words and avoid harsh or hurtful words. Remember that kindness and compassion are the foundation of a healthy marriage.

Let’s commit to THINKing before we speak and strive to make our words thoughtful, considerate, and in line with the teachings of the Bible. Let’s remember that our words have the power to build up or tear down, let’s choose to build up our marriage through our words.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help us to use our words wisely in our marriage. Help us to be truthful, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind in our communication. Help us to build up and encourage one another with our words. Give us the grace to speak with love, kindness and compassion. Amen.

Questions to ponder

• How much of your conversation is true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind?
• How much of your conversation is untrue, unhelpful, depressing, unnecessary, and mean?

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