Ephesians 4:29 Was one of the main verses we used as a goal in our parenting of our kids, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.” The goal was simply, “Talk nice”. We dealt with even minor violations of this family standard, and we used a variety of methods and strategies to reinforce this expected discipline in talking to each other. Though it took time the kids all grew steadily more gracious in their speech to each other. This evening 4 of the 8 of our kids and their spouses and kids came over for dinner at our house. It was so enjoyable listening to the conversation between them all. As I sat listening to the flow of conversation between them all, including the normal banter and kidding, I thought nothing is more necessary for a good positive relationship than the discipline of talking nice. I thought to myself, how sad it is that there are so many grown adults who have not learned this most basic of relational skills.

Ephesians 4:29 is so simple and complete. It ought to be a verse that everyone who wants to improve their relationship with others memorizes and meditates on constantly. “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear.”