Speaking Gracious Words

"It's only words." Have you heard that statement before? Stated with good intent, the speaker seeks to soften the impact of words spoken. In one way or another we can all bear witness to the fact that the school yard taunt, "Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me" is not quite true. Words are powerful. Author Nan S. Russell writes, "Poorly chosen words can kill enthusiasm, impact self-esteem, lower expectations and hold people back. Well chosen ones can motivate, offer hope, create vision, impact thinking and alter results."

Christians are not immune from using poorly chosen words. At one point or another we have spoken or received words tainted with sarcasm, irritation, anger or frustration; words packing quite an emotional punch. Intentionally or unintentionally, we have been hurt by the words of others and we have hurt others with our words. In addressing the use of words among Christians in the early church, Paul writes, "Let your word be always with grace, having been seasoned with salt, to know how you ought to answer each one" (Colossians 4:6, Literal Translation). Salt not only preserves but in right amounts, makes our food tasteful. The goal at all times is for our words to be edifying and pleasing. Eugene Peterson paraphrases the verse, "Be gracious in your speech. The goal is to bring out the best in others in a conversation, not put them down, not cut them out" (The Message). There is no ambiguity as to our responsibility to choose our words wisely and carefully.

Solomon, the wisest of men, observes, "The right word at the right time--beautiful!" and goes on further to say, "The right word at the right time is like a custom-made piece of jewelry" (Proverbs 15:23; 25:11, The Message). Even when stating truth, we are not at liberty to do so irresponsibly but rather to do so "in love" (Ephesians 4:15). By ourselves we are prone to get it wrong every time, but with the power of the Holy Spirit we can speak our words with grace at all times regardless of circumstances. He stands ready to help all those who ask it of Him.

How do you speak to those around you? How about those at home? Are your words spiced with grace?