Speaking Only for God’s Glory or Neighbour’s Good
By Rooted Africa (
Resolution #31
Resolved, never to say anything at all against any person, except when it is necessary for the glory of God, or the good of my neighbour, or my own good. In simple terms: Edwards resolved never to speak negatively or critically about any person unless it was absolutely necessary for God’s glory, the genuine good of that person, or his own spiritual well-being.This resolution targets gossip, slander, unnecessary criticism, and careless speech. Edwards wanted his words to be governed by love and eternity, not by emotion or self-interest.
Why This Matters Today
Our tongues are incredibly powerful. In the age of social media, group chats, and casual conversation, it is very easy to speak against others — venting, criticising, or sharing “prayer requests” that are really gossip. Edwards challenges us to a high standard: our words must pass the test of God’s glory and love for neighbour. As Ephesians 4:29 says, “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.”
Applying Resolution 31 Practically
Before speaking about anyone: Ask three questions — Does this glorify God? Does this serve my neighbour’s good? Is it necessary for my own soul?
In conversation: Replace criticism and gossip with prayer, encouragement, or silence.
When correction is needed: Speak privately, gently, and with the goal of restoration (Matthew 18:15).
Habit: Make it a daily practice to guard your tongue and use words that build up rather than tear down.This resolution purifies our speech and aligns it with the character of Christ.
Reflection Questions
In what situations do I most often speak against others (even subtly)?
Do my words usually build up or tear down?
How would my conversations change if I followed Resolution 31 strictly?Edwards reviewed his resolutions weekly to catch careless or harmful speech early. Regular reflection keeps the tongue under control. Resolution 31 calls us to speak only what honours God and serves others.Where do you struggle most with your speech about others? Share in the comments or on X (
References for Further Reading
Full text of Edwards' Resolutions: https://www.jonathan-edwards.org/Resolutions.html
"The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards" (Desiring God): https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-resolutions-of-jonathan-edwards
Ligonier Ministries overview: https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/resolutions-jonathan-edwards Rooted in truth, growing in grace.
Ready for Resolution 32? Just say “next”.
@kateyakli
)Jonathan Edwards had resolved to live as if he had already seen heaven and hell (Resolution 30) and never to allow any pleasure that hindered his spiritual progress (Resolution 29). Now he applied eternal perspective to one of the most powerful tools God has given us — our tongue.Resolution #31
Resolved, never to say anything at all against any person, except when it is necessary for the glory of God, or the good of my neighbour, or my own good. In simple terms: Edwards resolved never to speak negatively or critically about any person unless it was absolutely necessary for God’s glory, the genuine good of that person, or his own spiritual well-being.This resolution targets gossip, slander, unnecessary criticism, and careless speech. Edwards wanted his words to be governed by love and eternity, not by emotion or self-interest.
Why This Matters Today
Our tongues are incredibly powerful. In the age of social media, group chats, and casual conversation, it is very easy to speak against others — venting, criticising, or sharing “prayer requests” that are really gossip. Edwards challenges us to a high standard: our words must pass the test of God’s glory and love for neighbour. As Ephesians 4:29 says, “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.”
Applying Resolution 31 Practically
Before speaking about anyone: Ask three questions — Does this glorify God? Does this serve my neighbour’s good? Is it necessary for my own soul?
In conversation: Replace criticism and gossip with prayer, encouragement, or silence.
When correction is needed: Speak privately, gently, and with the goal of restoration (Matthew 18:15).
Habit: Make it a daily practice to guard your tongue and use words that build up rather than tear down.This resolution purifies our speech and aligns it with the character of Christ.
Reflection Questions
In what situations do I most often speak against others (even subtly)?
Do my words usually build up or tear down?
How would my conversations change if I followed Resolution 31 strictly?Edwards reviewed his resolutions weekly to catch careless or harmful speech early. Regular reflection keeps the tongue under control. Resolution 31 calls us to speak only what honours God and serves others.Where do you struggle most with your speech about others? Share in the comments or on X (
@kateyakli
). We continue tomorrow with Resolution 32: Resolved, to maintain a constant endeavour to grow in grace and to advance in the knowledge of God and Christ.This is Day 31 in our daily series on Jonathan Edwards’ 70 Resolutions.References for Further Reading
Full text of Edwards' Resolutions: https://www.jonathan-edwards.org/Resolutions.html
"The Resolutions of Jonathan Edwards" (Desiring God): https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/the-resolutions-of-jonathan-edwards
Ligonier Ministries overview: https://learn.ligonier.org/articles/resolutions-jonathan-edwards Rooted in truth, growing in grace.
Ready for Resolution 32? Just say “next”.
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