Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer each person.
—Colossians 4:6
I remember when I was young, we had a little saying that went, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” But as I’ve grown older, I’ve discovered that it’s not true. Words can be devastating. Gossip, slander, rumors, and innuendo can destroy a person’s life.
Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, during his confirmation to the court, had many terrible things said about his character. At one point, he remarked, “I would have preferred an assassin’s bullet to these proceedings.” That’s how damaging words can be. Yet very often today, many people simply say whatever they think and don’t even consider how it makes others feel.
As Christians, we have the responsibility to speak God’s truth, but to do it in love. Yet, the reality is that many believers slander those whom they’re supposed to love. There’s a difference between speaking what’s correct, and speaking what’s correct correctly.
Words have power. So let your speech be full of grace. Pray that the Holy Spirit would give you the right words to say when they need to be said. And above all else, keep an attitude of love and welcome toward all who need to hear the life-changing message of Jesus Christ!
SPEAK THE TRUTH, BUT DO IT IN LOVE, AND ALLOW GOD TO USE YOU TO WARMLY WELCOME THE LOST INTO THE KINGDOM!
