Counsels on Relationships

Counsel #4 — Upbuilding Communication

Picture: Counsel #4 — Upbuilding Communication CR 51.1

Christian communication is edifying. This means that your words will build up and strengthen, rather than tear down and destroy. You won’t call your child “stupid” if they make a mistake, you won’t call the driver who cuts you off “an idiot,” and you won’t belittle or shame the people close to you. When you edify your friends you’ll uplift them with words of hope, faith, and courage, rather than words of complaint or doubt.^[48] CR 51.2

“Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.” Ephesians 4:29 NKJV CR 51.3

“By manifesting meekness under provocation and growing away from low earthliness you give evidence that you have an indwelling Saviour, and every thought, word, and deed attracts men to Jesus rather than to self.” Ellen White in Testimonies for the Church, vol. 5, p. 597 CR 51.4

Reflect: Does your speech reflect Jesus, or does it tear others down? CR 51.5