Naturally we should avoid profane speech. No one needs to be told that profanity is unacceptable speech for the Christian. But what else is considered a corrupt word? Is not the gossip’s tale a sign of a serious heart problem? The Bible specifically names the sin of gossip: “And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not” (1 Timothy 5:13).

Negative and pessimistic speech edifies no one and thus should be avoided. The tongue should be employed to edify the hearer, to build up one another. Discipline is required as a sentry at our heart and mouth to guard our communication. If we practiced the cliché that says “think before you speak,” we would be men and women whose wells would flow grace to our hearers.

 

Disciplined In Devotion

…praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, being watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for all the saints… (Ephesians 6:18)

Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2 Timothy 2:15)