Our Speech should Reflect His Love and Holiness

It seems that the world condones the use of expletives. The television program or movie that does not contain profanity is rare. Some even suggest that profanity is necessary at all times to communicate the seriousness of a matter. The Scriptures reveal a different standard in one of the Ten Commandments: “You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain” (Exodus 20:7). Nor are we to speak crudely or engage in coarse joking (see Ephesians 5:4). This kind of talk is not compatible with our life in Christ. A pure heart that generates pure speech is a superb manifestation of God’s blessing in our lives and of our contentment as we walk with Him.

Praise the Lord for the beautiful words He speaks to His children: “It is good to give thanks to the LORD, and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; to declare Your lovingkindness in the morning, and Your faithfulness every night (Psalm 92:1-2).

Pray this confession to the Lord to keep your life free from sin and in fellowship with Him: “I return to You, O LORD my God, for I have stumbled because of my iniquity… I return to You, LORD, I say to You, “Take away all iniquity; receive me graciously; for I will offer the sacrifices of my lips”” (personalized from Hosea 14:1-2).

Confess any sins that the Holy Spirit brings to your mind. As you agree with His will, repent and voice your affirmation of His Word: “This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent (John 17:3).

With faith make your requests known to God, including:

• Pure speech,
• Greater love for your family,
• Strength for world leaders.

Thanking Him for accepting us through His Son: “Oh come, let us sing to the LORD! Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation (Psalm 95:1).

“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God. But among you there must not be even a hint of sexual immorality, or of any kind of impurity, or of greed, because these are improper for God’s holy people. Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving” (Ephesians 5:1-4).