Gracious speech

Scripture:  Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you should answer everyone. Colossians 4:6 (NET)

There are all sorts of situations we face each day. Each one of them can be good, bad, or ugly or anything in-between. What does life expect us to do? Usually the secular response is to spit the dummy and complain. Sometimes we respond less than graciously, even unkindly.

Reaction is an instinctive response and in most cases is inappropriate to the stimulus. There are times when I have responded in irritation only to discover moments later that it did not bless the recipient, rather it caused them to become defensive. An apology may soothe hurt feelings but the way I made them feel is not easily forgotten.

What does our Father expect us to do? I think he expects us to slowdown or even stop, and consider the next choice we will make. As we grow in Christ I think our goal is to grow in the grace that Jesus evidenced when he was here with us. It may be a difficult lesson to learn but it is one that is so valuable. Pausing before we respond.

How do we learn this skill? For me it is in reading how Jesus responded to his environment. Part of my learning has come from Christian life coaches and through reading books which are based on scriptural truth.

It would be interesting to hear how you have reacted or responded in tricky situations and where your inspiration came from?

Prayer:  Father God, May I make wise choices based on my identity as your child. Let my life reflect my belief of who I am in You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection:

It is my suggestion that you journal your thoughts and experiences, even your feelings, as a means of pondering what you have read. Asking questions of the material and of yourself is the best way to learn. Use your journal to record your thoughts.

Do you have any feedback or suggestions you would like to share with us?

Please do so by emailing me at:  giulio@bibman.au

Giulio …