Day 25
Watch Your Words – Martha
by Ann White
Do you speak healing words – or hurtful words? Today’s devotional will inspire you to build others up with your words while setting healthy boundaries for your own life.
“Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, ‘Lord, doesn’t it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me.’ But the Lord said to her, ‘My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her.’” (Luke 10:40–42).
Pray: Lord, unlock the mysteries of your Word that I might know your will.
Observe: Words can be helpful or harmful, and it’s critical to our spiritual, emotional, and relational health that we engage in regular checkups to assess how our words are impacting others and how their words are affecting us. Toxic words become lies, which can lead to distraction, inaction, and even depression.
If we take in hurtful words and allow them to define and defeat us, we will find it difficult, if not impossible, to accomplish God’s will in our lives. If we have a habit of criticizing and complaining about others, we will plant seeds of doubt and negativity that can cause others to doubt their abilities, become discouraged, and give up on their God-given dreams.
The more time we spend focusing on what others are doing or not doing, the less time we have to focus on things that really matter—like time spent with Christ..
Mary’s sister, Martha, allowed her emotions to influence her actions. She was so upset with her sister that she felt it necessary to complain to Jesus. Martha became so preoccupied with what she believed was important, that she fell prey to judgment and criticism and missed a God-given opportunity to sit at the feet of Christ.
Courageously watch your words by asking yourself the following questions:
- Do you respond to pain or disappointment by attacking others with hurtful words?
- Do you allow verbal attacks from others to distract, discourage, or defeat you?
- Will you set healthy boundaries with people who are verbally attacking you?
- Will you strive to speak words that will build yourself and others up rather than tearing them down?
Interpret: Jesus wants us to refrain from complaints and criticism and place our focus on things that really matter, like spending time with him.
Apply: Have you been hurtful to someone with your words? Reach out to them today, ask for forgiveness, and make a commitment to change your words.
Pray: Father, help me avoid words that offend and use words that edify others so I can be an instrument of your grace.