“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” (Colossians 4:6).
We affect our world by the way we talk. Our words are to be “full of grace, seasoned with salt.” It doesn’t mean that we always talk about our faith, but in everything we say we are mild, courteous and agreeable. King Solomon pointed out “a gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1).
The world of Paul’s day used “grace,” not just as a description of God’s undeserved favor, but in the sense of charm and kindness as well. When we have received God’s grace it will have a corresponding effect on the way we talk. Our words can either drive people away or be kind and open their hearts to hear us. It is by our gracious words that we can attract others to Jesus.
No one I know sits down to a meal of only salt. It wouldn’t be palatable. Salt is the seasoning that makes things taste better. There are many things we discuss, but all of those things are to be made appetizing with the graciousness of our words. Whether we are talking about the weather, politics, our favorite football team or our faith in Jesus we draw people in when our words are flavored with grace.
Speaking grace-filled words isn’t difficult for those of us who have been touched by God’s grace. His love and compassion for us can enable us to display His grace to others by the words we use. After all, we are here to represent the One described in Scripture as “full of grace and truth” (John 1:14).
