Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. EPHESIANS 4:29 NKJV
During my visit to Jerusalem, I had one full day to explore the city. I knew of several things I wanted to do that day before returning to Jordan the next morning to resume work at the archaeological dig site. Throughout my life I have been taught various BIBLE stories, many of which took place in Jerusalem. Of course, the city was destroyed and rebuilt over the years, but this was still Jerusalem. Tall walls surrounded the old city, and one of the places on the top of my list to visit was called the Wailing Wall. I had read that one could walk along the ramparts of the city walls and eventually arrive at the Wailing Wall. On average the walls are about forty feet tall and about eight feet thick. I was reminded of how, during biblical times, huge walls provided protection from attack for the citizens of the city. They relied on the walls, and I’m sure every day walked past them they were grateful for their presence.
In Jerusalem, I was able to located one of the stairways and follow it to the top of the walls. On the outside is the expansive, modern city of Jerusalem; the inside contains the ancient city streets and buildings. It really made me think of how different the world is.
People used to be able to hide behind city walls and no one could hurt them, but now it’s very easy to hurt people. One of the easiest ways is with the words you say or type. It has especially become way too easy for people to make comments on social media because you don’t have to say it directly to them.
Be careful of the things you post or say to people. Before saying anything, think and ask yourself, “Will this comment serve to build someone up or tear them down?” As a worst-case scenario, if you can’t think of anything good to say, the best idea is to just not to say anything at all.