I come from a family where there is one person who is always speaking her mind. This person is my mother. I do love her dearly but sometimes I wish she wouldn’t tell me everything she is thinking. This is because many of her thoughts are negative and offensive. As I reflected on some of the past family get togethers I have been involved in, I have realized that this trait has been passed down through the blood line.

I many times think very sarcastic and abrasive thoughts regarding different situations but I rarely speak my mind when these thoughts go skipping through my brain. I essentially have a filter which will stop the thought from transforming into a spoken word. Sometimes I wish I would have the nerve to speak up and put people in their place but as I study the Bible I realize my filter may be a gift from God.

In Ephesians 4:29 the Word of God says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.”

It is important at this time of year, especially, to choose words which build up others and do not tear them down. The greatest gift you may give someone this Christmas is an encouraging word, a helpful suggestion or a heartfelt compliment. Well spoken words may last a lifetime where as gifts usually lose their luster in due time.

You may be thinking that I have no idea what you have to endure at a family function. You are right. I do not know the dynamics of your family. However, Jesus is distinctly aware of your situation and He is the one who did not speak a word when faced with crucifixion. Kind of makes that irritating relative look a bit more palatable doesn’t it?