Fearing God from A to Z

E is for Edify

Unlike our dogs, cats, and other house pets, God gave us the gift of speech. Along with walking, potty training, and a thousand other skills, most of us learned to speak a language. Words enable communication with the people around us and the God who made us. But too often we use this gift for the wrong purposes. 

God created speech as a tool to edify and strengthen others (Eph. 4:29). 

He wants our chosen words to build up the people in our lives, not tear them down. Studies show that women speak about 20,000 words a day, while the average man speaks closer to 7,000.( excluding my husband) That can mean one of two things: 

• Women are 3 times more likely to say the wrong thing.
• Women have 3 times more opportunities to build others up.

What fragile factors determine which one we'll fulfill with our next words? Too often we let our emotions cause us to spit out sentences better left unsaid. Some of those poorly chosen comments will outlive us in the hearts and minds of the people we love.  

King David knew the important role words play when it comes to fearing God. 

He said those who fear the Lord, don't speak evil or guile (Psalm 34:11-14). Basically he warns us not to speak destructive or deceitful words. Don't try to tear down or mislead anyone. Once again, what purpose lies behind our choice of words?

When my husband, the contractor, buys a pickup load of wood, each board has a purpose. A client may want a deck, a fence, or a new porch. He picks out the materials to build a strong, specific project. He never buys a bunch of extra wood he can't use. If only we were as careful picking our words before we say them. 

Since we know it's impossible to speak 10,000 to 20,000 edifying words every day, we can pray David's prayer for help as our own. Once again, we find our hope in the truth that with God all things are possible. 

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart, be acceptable 

in Your sight O, Lord, my strength and my redeemer" (Psalm 19:14).