Exhortation: Speaking and Behaving as Children of God

Exhortation: Speaking and Behaving as Children of God

Key Verse:

"Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers." – Ephesians 4:29

Introduction

As teenagers and children, how we speak and behave reflects not only our character but also our faith in Christ. The Bible encourages us to honor God in everything we do, including our words and actions. This exhortation will help us understand the importance of speaking and behaving in a way that pleases God and builds others up.

1. Speaking Wisely and Kindly

Key Verse: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits." – Proverbs 18:21

Explanation: Words are powerful. They can hurt or heal, build up or tear down. As children of God, we are called to speak words of kindness, truth, and encouragement.

Application:

Avoid gossip, rude comments, and lying.Speak respectfully to parents, teachers, and elders.Use words to uplift friends and siblings, even when it’s hard.

Illustration: Imagine planting seeds in a garden. Kind words are like good seeds that grow into beautiful flowers, while hurtful words are like weeds that choke the garden.

2. Behaving as Role Models

Key Verse: "Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity." – 1 Timothy 4:12

Explanation: Even as young people, you have the ability to set an example for others. Your actions show whether you are living for Christ or following the world.

Application:

Obey your parents and respect authority.Avoid bad company or peer pressure to do wrong things.Show kindness, patience, and honesty in daily life.

Illustration: Think of a lighthouse that guides ships in the dark. Your good behavior is like the light that helps others find their way to Christ.

3. Representing Christ in All We Do

Key Verse: "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men." – Colossians 3:23

Explanation: As Christians, everything we say and do represents Jesus to the people around us. Our lives can either draw people closer to Him or push them away.

Application:

Before speaking or acting, ask: “Does this glorify God?”Be diligent in school, chores, and responsibilities, knowing you’re working for the Lord.Share your faith through your example, not just your words.

Illustration: If you wear a jersey with your favorite team’s name, your actions reflect that team. As Christians, our behavior reflects Christ to the world.

Practical Steps for Teens and Kids

Daily Prayer: Ask God to help you speak kindly and behave rightly.

Scripture Reading: Memorize verses like Ephesians 4:29 and Colossians 3:23 to guide your actions.

Accountability: Share your struggles with a trusted adult or friend who can pray for you.

Practice Apologizing: When you make a mistake, say sorry and learn from it.

Conclusion

God has given you the ability to make a positive impact through your words and actions. By speaking kindly and behaving honorably, you can glorify God and inspire others to follow Him. Let’s commit to living as examples of Christ’s love in everything we do.

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for teaching us how to speak and behave in ways that honor You. Help us to use kind words, show love through our actions, and be a light to those around us. Give us wisdom, patience, and strength to reflect Your character in all we do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.