"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." Ephesians 4:29
There is an unwritten rule in distance running that says, "There shall be no whining." Why is that important? Because runners know that the difference between finishing a race and dropping out could be a simple matter of words. You see, words can build us up and make us feel invincible or words can tear us down and cause us to fail to reach our potential. And they have the same effect on those around us. If we are focusing on the negative or complaining about our situation, others will tend to do the same. Similarly though, if we are focusing on the positive things and delighting in our blessings, others will likely follow.
In Paul's letter to the church at Ephesus, he gives us instructions on living a changed life as a Christian. When it comes to speech, he tells us that we are not to have "corrupting talk" come out of our mouths. The Greek word speaks of rotting, decaying speech-any sort of grumbling, obscenity, gossip, sarcasm, mockery and, yes, whining. Instead our speech should be "only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." Did you get that only part? Our words should be used only to encourage, uplift, comfort and inspire others.
So when you feel like whining, remember these wise words from Dr. Seuss, "When you think things are bad, when you feel sour and blue, when you start to get mad... you should do what I do... Just tell yourself, Duckie, you're really quite lucky! Some people are much more... oh, ever so much more... oh, muchly much-much more unlucky than you!" So, really, don't you and I have a lot to be thankful for?
Heavenly Father, thank you for the many blessings you have given us. Help us to always look at the glass as half full rather than half empty. And, Lord, please let only speech that builds up others come off our lips. Help us to raise others up that they might want to know you more through our actions. It's in your precious name we pray, Jesus. Amen.
Happy Running!!!
Words - Hawk Nelson
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