Worthless Words

Our words are tools that are capable of building up or tearing down. It may be hard to imagine that what we say can resemble wrecking balls, yet that is precisely how we ought to view it. We can inflict deep hurt in the lives of others when we speak out of anger, cynicism, or haste. The word sarcasm derives from the Greek term σαρκασμός (sarkasmós), which portrays the horrible image of flesh being torn from someone's back. In a single moment, we can craft our own cruel whip—lashing out scornfully with our lips.

We must remember Jesus’ words in Matthew 12:37: “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” The common saying, “Silence is golden,” holds true. Scripture affirms, “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles” (Proverbs 21:23). This doesn’t mean we should fear speaking altogether, but rather that we be mindful of the timing, tone, and intent of our words (Proverbs 15:1, 23).

The Apostle Paul offers this exhortation in Ephesians 4:29 (AMP): “Let no foul or polluting language, nor evil word nor unwholesome or worthless talk [ever] come out of your mouth, but only such [speech] as is good and beneficial to the spiritual progress of others, as is fitting to the need and the occasion, that it may be a blessing and give grace (God's favor) to those who hear it.” Our conversations should overflow with gentle grace, not bitter envy. We must strive to be intentional in the way we speak to others—always aiming to edify and encourage them in the faith.