Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned as it were, with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. Colossians 4:6 (NAS)
When I was growing up my dad often said, "You catch more flies with honey than you do vinegar." On more than one occasion he proved that statement to be true as he talked his way out of a speeding ticket. I observed the soothing effect dad's polite and persuasive words had on the trooper as he handed him a warning instead of a well-deserved ticket.
Other times he walked away with a handshake and a great deal on a new car as the dealer was left scratching his head wondering what had just come over him. Dad understood the power of candy-coated words.
More importantly are the lessons concerning words that come from our Heavenly Father. There is sound biblical basis for choosing our words carefully. Many verses warn us of the danger and ill-effects our renegade words can have on others as well as on our witness to them. In our opening verse we are cautioned to measure and season our words vigilantly. According to Proverbs 15:1, A gentle answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.
As Christians our timely words of wisdom and encouragement extended to others represent Christ. Angry, confrontational words are not likely to persuade others to follow God's principles. Our words, when used to glorify God rather than benefit ourselves will echo through eternity with heavenly rewards.
Lord, help our words to others be carefully chosen and spoken. As they fall on their ears as well as Yours, I pray that You will find them pleasing—sweet as honey. Amen.
© 2012 Bonnie Mae Evans
1 comment:
This is a great story. More than once a soft word has turned away the wrath of an angry soul. Even a baby recognizes a soft voice from an angry one. He/she will smile when softly spoken to, but cry when harsh words are spoken. Children learn what they live. They are great imitators so we must teach them to imitate the love of God. Evelyn
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