Now that we have grandjoys that visit often, there are a few things I try to keep in stock. Juice boxes are one of the favorites! One of the things that I’ve noticed is that as soon as they get their little hands on them it seems juice begins to flow right out of the straw leading to a sometimes-sticky mess.
I know the little guys just get excited and don’t mean to make a mess, it just happens. There is nothing you can do to get the juice back. The only thing you can do is try to clean up the stickiness. It may be on the floor, on them or anything else in sight. The oldest one can now handle his fine, but the two younger ones may still struggle.
This is kind of like words that flow out of our mouths and before we know it, we have left a sticky mess behind. We didn’t mean to, it just happened. We can’t bring those words back once they are out.
The Bible addresses how we should speak to one another. “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
In a world filled with such ugliness, backbiting, lying, deceitfulness and hate, it is imperative that Christians be mindful of our words in order to make a difference.
Today, I want to encourage you to choose your words. Words that are edifying and will build someone up. Choose words that are kind and speak life. Encourage others.
It is easier to not make a mess than to make one and try to clean up afterwards. Think about it.
“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” Colossians 4:6
Fun fact: My 3 grandjoys with their juice boxes. Ages 5 ½, 2 ½, and 2.