Morning Bible Study: Ephesians 4:29-32

I like both of the translations for these verses. V.29 in the NLT emphasizes the importance of how our words can have a positive impact on those around us. V.30 of The Message provides a beautiful description of the relationship between us, as individuals, and the Holy Spirit.

29  Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. 

30  And do not bring sorrow to God's Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. 

31  Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. 

32  Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. NLT

*or*

29  Watch the way you talk. Let nothing foul or dirty come out of your mouth. Say only what helps, each word a gift. 

30  Don't grieve God. Don't break his heart. His Holy Spirit, moving and breathing in you, is the most intimate part of your life, making you fit for himself. Don't take such a gift for granted. 

31  Make a clean break with all cutting, backbiting, profane talk. 

32  Be gentle with one another, sensitive. Forgive one another as quickly and thoroughly as God in Christ forgave you. The Message

(the following is from Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary -- www.christianity.com)

"Commentary on Ephesians 4:29-32

Filthy words proceed from corruption in the speaker, and they corrupt the minds and manners of those who hear them: Christians should beware of all such discourse. It is the duty of Christians to seek, by the blessing of God, to bring persons to think seriously, and to encourage and warn believers by their conversation. 

Be ye kind one to another. This sets forth the principle of love in the heart, and the outward expression of it, in a humble, courteous behaviour. Mark how God's forgiveness causes us to forgive. God forgives us, though we had no cause to sin against him. We must forgive, as he has forgiven us. 

All lying, and corrupt communications, that stir up evil desires and lusts, grieve the Spirit of God. Corrupt passions of bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, evil-speaking, and malice, grieve the Holy Spirit. Provoke not the holy, blessed Spirit of God to withdraw his presence and his gracious influences. 

The body will be redeemed from the power of the grave at the resurrection day. Wherever that blessed Spirit dwells as a Sanctifier, he is the earnest of all the joys and glories of that redemption day; and we should be undone, should God take away his Holy Spirit from us."