When we take folks on a short-term mission trip to the Dominican Republic or Rwanda, we like to pick a verse from scripture as our theme. One of my favorites is Philippians 2:14 - “Do everything without grumbling or complaining.” (Very important for a mission trip!)

A close second is the verse above – Ephesians 4:29. St. Paul writes, "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up..."

Truth is, whether you are knee deep in mixing cement in Santo Domingo, or walking your dog in your neighborhood, these verses are good to keep in mind. Indeed, we are always attempting to represent how followers of Jesus look and act – especially towards people who do not identify as followers or believers.

As my mother was fond of saying: “You can’t control how others act or what they say… but you can control how you respond.” I’ll admit that I don’t always respond in a Christ-like way to negative people. I need the Holy Spirit to help me control what I say. Is this helpful? Will my words make things better or worse? Will my words benefit those who listen (if they listen at all)?

Of course, it seems impossible for us as broken and sinful people to go an entire day without giving in to the temptation to sin. But maybe we can go one minute – not on our own strength – but with the help the Holy Spirit. And if we can go one minute, maybe we focus on what we say in those 60 seconds. It’s pretty remarkable the power that thoughtful, encouraging words can have on others. As the saying goes, “People don’t line up to be judged. But they might line up to be loved.”

If we want others to be receptive to the Good News we are trying to share, then our words matter. Words have power. Let’s choose words of love. Let’s try to be uplifting. Let's strive to reflect the heart of Jesus Christ today. Or for the next 60 seconds at least.

God bless you!

Gary