Kingdom Lifestyle; Minister Grace

By Kayode Emmanuel

Devotional Reading: ‘Don’t use bad language. Say only what is good and helpful to those you are talking to, and what will give them a blessing.’ Ephesians 4:29 TLB

Few years back during my NYSC (a compulsory program for all graduate in Nigeria) orientation camp, the lifestyle there was regimented. Not minding whether one is a child of an influential personality or institution we had graduated from, everyone was subjected to the same experience. From our outfit, daily schedule (in fact, we had no much free time to ourselves), food, speech and other activities were put to check.

All of that so there could be a form of uniformity and order. Many whom I know personally to lack discipline in one way or the other comported themselves because they knew what was at stake if they do otherwise.

So also, the life of a believer is not a reckless one, we do not live as one without order and control. Of a truth, we are in the era of grace but it’s guided by the truth as revealed in the pages of the scripture. Bible says, “Grace and truth came by Jesus Christ” – John 1:17. We are at liberty to say whatever we desire, however such must have certain element; it must be good and helpful; it must minister grace to the hearers and ultimately be a blessing to them.

Therefore, you who have the life of God is expected to live the kingdom lifestyle and thereby cannot be found uttering certain words no matter how profusely widespread they are. Your words are to be subjected to the ‘grace and truth’ test. This is not as though you are been given new set of rule, but rather, if truly you are saved, it is expected to reflect in every area of your life, your speech not excluded.

Prayer and Confession
The words that I speak are spirit and life, it ministers grace to everyone who hears me. My words edifies and comforts the downtrodden.

Further Reading: Eccl. 10:12, Col. 4:6, Matt. 12:34