“SEASONED WITH SALT”

6 “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.”

Colossians 4:6

My family started attending a Christian church when I was about nine. One of the things that attracted me the most was how believers spoke to each other in a kind and polite manner. Their kind words were different; they were new and refreshing. 

I am convinced it is exactly what we need these days.

We have been talking about things you and I should stop doing. Since we identify with Christ, we should humble ourselves and allow the Holy Spirit to work in our hearts, molding us into who He wants us to be.

In our previous sermon, we learned that the church is a beautiful community of imperfect individuals using their God-given gifts to help one another and give glory to God. Here’s another hurtful habit we should get rid of:

Being Mean

Is it possible for a Christian to be mean? The short answer is yes. But that doesn’t mean we should. This is one of the things we should actively strive to stop doing. To be known for being miserly despite claiming faith in Christ hurts not only one’s testimony but also the message of the Gospel.

While we are free to express ourselves, I don’t think we should do so if it comes at the expense of others. Even when we believe we are right, we should proceed with great caution. If our words will hurt someone, we’re better off holding our tongues. Sometimes, words cut deeper than a knife, and the pain they cause can be irreversibly destructive.

Let’s ponder today’s verse. The Apostle Paul instructs the Colossian believers to be mindful of their speech. He uses the imagery of salt, which was valuable enough to be considered a form of currency and used as a preservative and flavoring. 

Likewise, a Christian’s verbal communication should help preserve relationships and add value to people’s lives. It’s not about winning an argument; it’s about winning people’s hearts. As such, we must choose our words carefully, expressing ourselves in wholesome, winsome, and attractive ways. There’s always a better way to convey our message. We can choose to speak with wisdom and love, helping others see things from God’s perspective.

Paul encourages us to speak wholesome, kind, loving, and truthful words. Our speech should bless others while ensuring we don’t sugarcoat the truth or bend its realities. Just as salt is used to prevent spoilage, so should our speech influence others to trust in God.

When we disagree with someone, let’s not attack the person; instead, focus on the issue. Let's examine their arguments—listen and find out where they are coming from. We will not always agree, but even when we don’t see eye to eye, we have a choice to remain Christ-like. We have the option not to be mean.

Pursue the Savior today!

Photo by Jason Tuinstra on Unsplash