In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

            Words are powerful. Harsh remarks can cause a destructive chain reaction, like a match in the forest during a drought. Kind comments feel like a light summer rain that brings relief from the heat of day. 

            We can know our words are the refreshing kind--seasoned with grace--when...

            �?Our tone and manner reflect the way we want others to speak to us. Talking pleasantly should not depend on whether others are kind with their words. Grace-filled speech consistently uses a gentle voice and positive body language. 

            �?What we say about others is similar to what we would want said of us. All of us hope to hear our weaknesses minimized and our strengths emphasized--and to be given the benefit of the doubt in confusing situations. 

            �?We speak only words we know to be true. Gossip and lies have no place in a Christian's conversation. The Lord opposes lying tongues and false witnesses (Proverbs 6:16-19). 

            �?Our speech is edifying. Speaking fairly and positively of others is part of godly speech. 

            Transforming our conversation begins on the inside with the right heart attitude. As we saturate our minds with the Word of God, our hearts will soften, and we'll begin to respond differently. Through the Holy Spirit, we will be convicted of times when our speech is inappropriate. He will teach us to be more aware of what we say and to stop ourselves before we speak amiss. 

            God will be glorified and others will be blessed when we practice grace-filled speech.

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