Walk This Way

This powerful exploration of Ephesians 5 confronts us with an uncomfortable truth: our words carry the weight of life and death. Drawing from Proverbs 18:21, we're reminded that speech isn't merely communication—it's creation. Every syllable we utter either builds up or tears down, heals or wounds, blesses or curses. The sermon challenges us to examine the 'rotten speech' that Paul warns against—gossip, criticism, vulgarity, and careless words that we so easily justify with excuses like 'I couldn't help it' or 'they deserved it.' But here's the profound insight: our sinful speech doesn't just harm others and ourselves; it grieves the very heart of God. Genesis 6 reveals that God's heart can be so wounded by human wickedness that He regretted creation itself. This isn't about a tyrannical deity issuing arbitrary rules—it's about a loving Father whose heart breaks when His children hurt each other. The call to 'imitate God as beloved children' transforms from obligation to invitation. Like children learning by watching their parents, we're called to mirror God's sacrificial love, pursue His holiness, and extend His forgiveness—even to those who don't deserve it. The Holy Spirit empowers this impossible task, helping us walk in Jesus' footsteps through fresh snow, following His example of speaking truth with grace.