New Nature Characteristics

We read last week about having this new nature in our lives. The new nature can only be lived out through the power of Christ working in us each and every day. We will start on a journey that will show us what this new nature actually looks like! "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." Eph. 4:29 When we begin living our life according to the standard of Christ we will find there are some areas of our life that we just won't be able to hold onto anymore. It is Christ's desire when we come to Him that we let everything go. He has given us so much more to live for through His death on the cross. He conquered sin, and restored fellowship with God and man. It is easy to speak out that the least that we can do is surrender our lives to Him. In all reality, surrendering ourselves is probably the hardest thing for most of us to do. We like the fact that we can be independent, and being able to live the way we desire. In order to live a life of intimacy with God we must devote our whole heart to Him. This verse attacks an area of life that is very common among most people. Speaking with foul or abusive language; think over that for a moment. What might that type of language be? The first things that come to mind are swear words, this is true but next comes my sarcastic remarks. Language that when I think about it doesn't bring any life to anyone. Usually sarcasm is used to bring someone down, to point out someones faults and "joke" about them. This has been an on going struggle with me, however the more and more I desire to live out my New Nature I have to remind myself this is part of my old self. It is a matter of holding my tongue when I want to say something destructive and either finding something encouraging to say or simply not speaking at all. It is so amazing how just a few little words can totally crush someone. An example that sticks out to me was something that happened to me this week. I was sitting in my house and one of my friends came by and heard the music I was listening to. I was listening to the internet radio and they commented saying what are you doing listening to such girly music? Then without giving me anytime to answer went on to say that the other day I had been listening to other similar music the other day in the shop when I was working. I wasn't hurt by this statement but I did however get upset at the fact there wasn't any hello or anything it was just immediately pointing out what they apparently thought was a fault in me. It probably wouldn't have been a big deal had it come from any other person but this specific person constantly only points out the negative and never seems to say anything encouraging. God spoke to me in this situation and showed me the importance of speaking encouragement. I want to only be known for the kindness and love that comes out of my mouth. I want people to not think when I walk into a room, oh goodness what is he going to say about me now. I want them to know that my words will lift them up and cause others to see them as the precious jewel that they are in God.

So I suppose this week, try and speak nice things to anyone you come in contact with. Compliment hair, outfits, character traits that you appreciate in people. If someone tries to bring you down turn the conversation around and lift them up instead of engaging in the abusive language that seems to be so common in this world. Think of the way Jesus would respond, either with words of LOVE, or saying nothing in reply.