June,12, 2018 – Tuesday
Reading
Ephesians 4:29 [NKJV] Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers.
Reflection
Sitting in the breakroom, a coworker cursed and told a story about someone in another department. It was not the first time that day I heard vulgar words and rumors. After all, gossip is the common language at my workplace, and crude conversation is the currency that drives the breakroom. Dirty jokes seem just the frosting on the cake.
Scripture reminds us to keep corrupt words from pouring out of our months. We are to say nothing that does not impart grace to the hearers.
Does this happen where you work? Do people have few filters and say whatever comes to mind? Keeping your mouth free from corruption is no easy task, but it is necessary if your words will be uplifting to those within earshot.
Today at work, join me in taking a stand against gossip, dirty jokes, and vulgar language. Like mine, your employee handbook probably has rules against that kind of talk. Have courage to use the handbook. But even more importantly, have courage to be a Christian at work. Find ways to show others how to impart grace to the hearers. Find ways to frown upon anything less.
Prayer
Father, thank You for watching my words. By Your spirit, help me avoid the temptation to participate in conversations that are not upbuilding to those who are listening. At work today, may my words be gracious, good, and edifying. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Courtney Payton
Director of Student Finance
Hattiesburg, Mississippi USA
and MPA Candidate
Belhaven University
Jackson, Mississippi USA