Choose Better Words

Ready:

"Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer each person.” —歌罗西书 4:6

Set:

It’s true that one way to build better culture and stronger relationships in sports is to have healthier words. Sports language shapes sports culture. We know this and so do most athletes and coaches. Yet it is very evident that many athletes and coaches use unacceptable words. We use poor or unacceptable words to diminish another athlete or team. The hope is that we humiliate the opponent. We want the upper hand.

There is a direct connection between our words and actions. Speak good words and your actions will follow suit.

Jesus said a lot about speech (our words), about its origins, and the effect it has on others. He points out that the driving force for your words is your heart. “. . . for his mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart” (Luke 6:45). Jesus taught that when we say certain things, but our actions are different, we are hypocrites. (Matthew 23:1-5) Paul warns about our words, too. “But now, put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth.” (Colossians 3:8). It's pretty clear. Stop using words in these ways. When wholesome, acceptable words are used, it reveals that the underlying foundation of your life, thoughts, attitudes and words, are built upon God, who is your Rock and Redeemer.

Our use of good words glorifies God. We don’t need to use derogatory words or speech to win games. We need Jesus, deep in our hearts and minds, transforming us day by day, so that our words are good, wholesome, proper and acceptable to Him, to us, and to others who hear us.

Go:

1. What is your normal way of talking? Is your speech healthy, wholesome, honorable, wisdom focused, helpful to others or honorable to Jesus?

2. What needs to change in your heart that will change how you speak?

Workout:

Overtime: