21st September, 2025
A Fountain Publication
The Lodestar
Online Magazine for the Thinking Christian
Devotional
Words that Heal or Harm
“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear” (Eph 4:29).
By Paulson Pulikottil
The Greek word for “corrupt” signifies whatever is not fit for the purpose it is meant for. For example, the rotten fish the fishermen throw away from the catch (Matt 13:48) or the rotten fruits (Matt 7:17).
When applied to speech, this includes words that hurt, dispirit, and put people down. Though harmless, utterances without any particular purpose also fall into this category.
On the contrary, the speech of the new creation in Christ is drastically different. First, it builds up the hearers rather than pulling them down. Instead of discouraging words, their speech encourages the hearer. Second, their speech is always relevant to the occasion, not just meaningless babbles. Third, their talk is graceful.
Corrupt words not only harm the hearers. Jesus pointed out that unclean words also pollute the speaker. “It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person” (Matt 15:11).
In the fourth chapter of Ephesians, Paul portrays the new creation of Christ. The new creation is marked by a new set of beliefs and a radically new way of behaviour. That behaviour includes what they say.
Let us strive to speak in a way that edifies and reflects the new creation in Christ. May our words build up others, be relevant to the moment, and carry grace. As we go about our day, choose to speak life and purity, avoiding corrupt words that hurt and pollute. Commit today to let your speech mirror your faith and renew your heart. Share this message to inspire others to cultivate wholesome, uplifting communication.
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