When Jesus walked the earth, his words awed the crowds. His words brought comfort to the hurting, hope to the hopeless, and healing to the sick. His words challenged the prejudices and wrong ideas of those who needed to change. His words inspired people to believe in God and to follow God’s way. Every word that he spoke was perfect. He always said the right thing at the right time. He taught us how to relate to others, how to know God, and how to receive eternal life.
The words of Jesus were truly Spirit-filled words. Spirit-filled words are these kinds of words: “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control” (Galatians 5:22-23).
- loving words
- words that spread joy
- words that bring peace
- patient words
- kind words
- words of goodness
- words of faith
- gentle words
- self-controlled words
Jesus’ followers sought to follow his example in the way they spoke, relying on the Holy Spirit to empower and guide them. They didn’t always get it right, but when they did, their words were on point and powerful.
Here’s one time when Simon Peter spoke with Spirit-filled words: “Then Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit and said to them, “Rulers of the people and elders…” (Acts 4:8). Notice that the Bible says that Peter was filled with the Holy Spirit as he was speaking. This means the Holy Spirit was guiding his words. Peter was speaking with Spirit-filled words.
How about you? Are your words full of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control? It’s a daily challenge. It involves continual focus and dependence on God. Ask God to help you always to speak with Spirit-filled words. He will help you.
Good word Derek ..”pun intended. With love of course.
🙂
🙂 Thanks Derek! It is a daily process. Philippians 4:8 helps with this…