Ephesians 5

This entire chapter covers what we should and should not do as children of God, in detail. It also covers the power of the light and to be wary of the darkness (8-14) and of the Lord’s will, to avoid drunkenness (18) and how to speak to one another as Christians (19-21). Also there are instructions on how a husband and wife should treat and love one another (22-33) as Christ cares for the church. With so many great messages it is very difficult to pick just one to speak on, though I will try.

Verse 4 says, in reference to how God’s people should act, “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving.” This verse spoke volumes to me. I believe it to be referencing silliness and foul language/joking/obscenities, but it can also apply to something else as well. For those of you who know me well, I am a big joker and sometimes pick on people in jest. I mean no harm or malice, for I know how it hurts to be picked on “for real”, I do it all in fun and the people I speak to know I am only kidding. However, as this verse brought to my attention, the “foolish talk and coarse joking” can go too far and are “out of place” for God’s people.

If I constantly joke and kid with people, especially about the same thing, it may give them a complex to believe they are inferior in that aspect. At that point, intended or not, I am tearing them down instead of building them up. Also, if anyone else is watching, I am being a bad witness for Christ, joking or not, the person still sees one of “God’s people” acting in this fashion. Instead, they should see me being thankful and praising God. I should be the kind of witness that shows the best of Christ, not the worst of humanity. If I have ever brought harm to any of you in any way through my actions and tongue, please forgive me, for it was not intentional, but I know it still can hurt. A bullet fired by accident can still harm the same as one fired on purpose.

Please Lord forgive me for my transgressions against others by my joking. Please forgive me for being an improper witness for You. Help me to curb my tongue and say things pleasing to You, oh Lord, words that uplift and encourage Your people, and not harmful things that tear them down, intended or unintentional alike. I thank you, Lord, for Your word and message to me today and praise Your Holy Name.