Dec
22
Hope for the Holidays
Filed by Becky Albrecht Under Uncategorized | Leave a Comment
Here are some thoughts to help us to know what at least OUR end of the conversation might look like.
God’s Word has some ideas for us:
“Do not not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” (Ephesians 4:29 niv)
Our words should:
(1) Build others up.
(2) Be according to _their_ needs.
(3) Benefit those who listen.
Immediately, I might think, “But no one _else_ talks like that! Why should I??”
A thought: the only person that I can control is myself. Regardless of what others are doing, I can speak words of grace. Also, rather than taking my cues from other people, I should remember that God is present with me wherever I am; I should take my cues from Him.
Another thought might be: “But there’s NO WAY that my words sound like this. I don’t even think I could do it if I tried…”
The good news is that God already knew that. If I admit that on my own, I cannot speak words of grace, or think more of others than I think of myself, then I am on the _right_ track. This is what the incarnation is all about. God entered history, lived the life of obedience that I could _never_ have lived, and died in my place. It is because of the cross that I can have the power to speak words that build others up, are according to their needs, and benefit those who listen.
For more thoughts on the power of the cross, and the Gospel of Christ, click on “Pursuit of Wisdom” (above).
Best wishes for a peaceful holiday!
