The competitor in me has a tendency to encourage a spirit of perfectionism to reign within me. The byproduct of this bad habit results in negativity. Critical words fly out of my mouth without thinking of the impact they have on others. Unfortunately, my remarks often devalue individuals, negatively influencing people I care about.
Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving, Ephesians 5:4.
Thus, when I heard a sermon last Sunday about raising the value of the people in your life, conviction rained upon me. Like a random shower in the middle of a sunny day, guilt, remorse and sorrow dripped upon my soul. Similar to the apostle Paul in Romans 7, I find myself doing that which that I hate. This message was a subtle reminder that I am going down the wrong path in life, in desperate need of taking an about face.
Do 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.
The Bible encourages individuals to use affirmations to raise the value of the people in your life. Instead of dwelling on the negative, turn your attention toward which that will build up family, friends and neighbors. As hard as it may be, don’t allow yourself be consumed with a desire to be in control. Rather, let go and let God begin to transform you so that kinds words may begin to raise the value of the people in your life.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 