Words Are Like Air

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” – Ephesians 4:29 My son was watching Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, an animated children’s series known for its positive messages. While I was on my computer answering an email, I overheard Daniel Tiger singing, “When you feel really angry, let it out. When you feel really angry, let it out.” I paused and thought, wait—knowing that letting it out actually doesn’t make you feel less angry! Expressing words of doubt or fear doesn’t dissolve those feelings; it often just spreads them. If I’m afraid, suddenly you need to be afraid, too. If I doubt, I want you to doubt as well. We end up doubting together. While it’s valuable to have honest conversations with a counselor, pastor, or close friend