What Comes Out of Your Mouth?

What kind of words do you prefer to use—those that hurt or those that heal?

We all see life differently, and that’s why we sometimes clash. Some people are born into wealthy families and others grow up with very little; some know how to defend themselves physically better than others, while some defend themselves intellectually. Even within the same family, there’s the older sibling and the younger one. And these differences—whether we like it or not—create different ways of thinking… and that’s where conflict begins.

For example, when someone is the oldest child, they often want to do everything first, they don’t like sharing much, and they like to be in charge. In a classroom, the athletic student may not get along with the one who prefers studying. This happens because they have different perspectives.

However, even if we have differences, there is something we should all have in common: respect for one another.

A clinical study shows that 71% of people with depression come from environments where negative words were dominant.

And let’s be honest: some people don’t want to hear the truth, and others are simply rude.

That’s why we have two options: be patient with how we communicate, or simply walk away.

At the end of the day, as the saying goes: if we don’t have anything good to say, it’s better not to say anything at all.

And that’s why the Bible teaches us: “Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps; each word a gift.”
— Ephesians 4:29

We are all going through different moments, situations, and stages in life, but we shouldn’t be rude to one another. On the contrary, we should help each other and give each other a “gift” of faith. We shouldn’t tear each other down; and if someone doesn’t appreciate it, it’s better to step aside and not allow what others feel to stain your heart.

Let’s speak positive words—words that are a gift to those who hear them.

With that same faith, the Teen Power Group (TPG) goes throughout the country with the Stop Bullying project. In every outing, the group speaks openly about the different types of bullying and explains what each young person can do to put a stop to it. The truth is that many are suffering from bullying and don’t have the voice or confidence to ask for help.

That’s why Stop Bullying exists: to lift up those young people, give them support, and remind them that their life has value. Here, each one receives something that makes the difference: a word of faith that strengthens and encourages.