Is it “Unwholesome Talk” if I’m Right?

Ephesians 4:29; Colossians 3:12-15

When Paul instructs us to not let any unwholesome talk come out of our mouths, he does not make exceptions for when we think we are right.  Even if we are correct, even if we are standing on the side of righteousness, we are still called to express only what is useful for building others up. We have to be sure we are expressing ourselves in a way that does not demean others. When interacting with those who share our point of view, we are to communicate in a way that doesn’t vilify “those on the other side.” When we make exceptions, we further ingrain the “otherness” of those outside our group.  We are to “clothe ourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” and overall put on love, binding us in unity. We cannot do this and vilify others at the same time. We can stand firm for what is right without degrading those who disagree with us.

Questions for further thought:
1. When I post or share on social media, are my posts helpful for building others up?
2. When I talk to those I think agree with me, would I speak the same way if I knew they did not agree with me? 

​Challenge: Before posting on social media or engaging in conversations with those in your “camp” pause and reflect on how you are expressing your ideas. Are your words edifying?