God’s healing word
In the same way urge the young men to be self-controlled. In all things you yourself must be an example of good behaviour. Be sincere and serious in your teaching. Use sound words that cannot be criticised, so that your enemies may be put to shame by not having anything bad to say about us. (verses 6-8)
Read Titus 2:1-15
Another way to talk about ‘sound words’ could be to call them ‘healing words’, words that give life and freedom and peace. Sound, healing words are like medicine. Sometimes medicine is not pleasant to take, but no-one criticises a doctor who prescribes medicine to a patient who is in great need. In the same way, sound words may sometimes be difficult to hear, but no-one, in the end, can criticise a person who speaks the truth in love to someone in need.
God wants you to use sound words. He wants you to speak the truth in love so that you may build people up with your words and so that no-one may have anything bad to say about you.
God gives you sound words by speaking his life-giving word to you. As God gives you all his commands and promises in Jesus, you receive healing for your soul, and God frees you to speak the truth in love.
Father, thank you for giving me your healing word. Thank you for giving me Jesus. Please give me the courage and strength to speak sound words, so that the people you place in my life may share in your blessing. Amen.
by Fraser Pearce, in ‘Renewed Hope for each Day’ (LCA, Openbook, 2000)
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