YouTube Channel Video Devo
“Pause Before You Post”
Ephesians 4:29
NIV- Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
NLT- Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.
We have all had numerous times in our lives where we regret saying something to someone. It’s been heavy on my heart and mind lately how so many people post things on social media without giving it a second thought. The past month, I’ve actually pulled back from scrolling through posts and just let my mind rest from reading all the opinions people are putting out.
Growing up, I’ve had people repeatedly tell me, in various ways, to be careful about what I say before I say it. This is especially true when we get heated and worked up about something that we are either passionate about or that really bothers us. No matter what we might be get worked up about or frustrated about, we should always make it a point to take a pause, thinking about what’s about to come out of our mouths and then either put it to rest or say/post in a very tactful and constructive way.
So many people get emotionally scarred by things that are said each and every day. Lately, I’ve been thinking so much about how people rant and spew opinions on social media. Time and time again, I think about how we are called to encourage and lift others up, but unfortunately so much what is said these days is really hurtful and discourages people.
What if each one of us really considers the words that come out of our mouth? Maybe we should make more of an effort to pause and reflect before talking? Not only do we need to pause before posting our input online, but in every day conversations with people around us. Each day, we come into contact with various people. Are we choosing our words carefully? Are we thinking about how we can benefit one another and lift each other up?
We are told in Scripture to be the body of Christ, lifting each other up and encouraging one another. We cannot do this effectively if we are bashing each other. In this day and age, so many resort to posting and they don’t think twice about what is being said. Is it to encourage each other or critique?
I just want to encourage all of us to think, rethink and really consider what we are saying to others, especially online. The past month, by pulling back more on my browsing and scrolling, I’ve felt better. There’s just so much negativity out there and I want my mind and heart filled with positive things. Why don’t we all strive to share positive words with others and focus on how we can build others up. Are encouraging or discouraging others?
