Seasoned with salt
“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone” Colossians 4 v 6
Every interaction that we have with others has the potential to leave an impression. No matter where we are, people will make assumptions about our character based upon what we say and do. We may not always be able to control these judgements but our choice of words in conversation can be a powerful influencer.
I can think of many occasions where I have regretted my words, or lack thereof. We may feel a sense of guilt and embarrassment when our interactions leave others with an impression that differs from how we would like to be perceived. This “ideal” will look different for everyone, depending on individual values and beliefs.
As disciples of Jesus Christ, we are called to be holy or “separate” in all we do, including our speech (1 Peter 1 v 15). Something about our conversation should be distinguishable and set us apart from others. In a society that tends to enjoy talking about anything controversial and captivating, it can be difficult to stay grounded. We must continually reflect on our choice of words and consider if they are honourable and pleasing to our Father in heaven.
“A person’s words can be life-giving water; words of true wisdom are as refreshing as a bubbling brook.” Proverbs 18 v 4
The Bible offers much practical wisdom about how we can communicate effectively, and emphasises the importance of carefully considering what you are going to say before opening your mouth.
“On the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.” Matthew 12 v 35 - 37
“Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire… No man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” James 3 v 5 - 8
Rather than attempting to summarise all of the advice on this very important topic into one short article, I will instead recommend three simple steps that we can all use to filter what we say. Before opening your mouth, consider:
Is it true?
“Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit.” Psalm 34 v 13
“Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you.” Proverbs 4 v 24
“A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.” Proverbs 16 v 28
“A false witness will not go unpunished, and he who breathes out lies will perish.” Proverbs 19 v 9
“So put away all malice and all deceit and hypocrisy and envy and all slander.” 1 Peter 2 v 1
Is it kind?
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4 v 29
“A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Proverbs 15 v 1
“Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.” Proverbs 16 v 24
“She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.” Proverbs 31 v 36
“Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.” 1 Thessalonians 5 v 11
Is it necessary?
“Everyone should be quick to listen and slow to speak.” James 1 v 19
“Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” Proverbs 29 v 20
“The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint… Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent and discerning if they hold their tongues.” Proverbs 17 v 27 - 28
“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but a man of understanding remains silent.” Proverbs 11 v 12
“Set a guard over my mouth, O LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips.” Psalm 141 v 3
If what you were going to say is not true, kind or necessary, perhaps you should consider keeping it to yourself. In addition to the above, we should think about who we are speaking for… are we seeking to benefit ourselves or others?
Words are powerful and can resonate with a person long after the conversation has finished. As representatives of Jesus, we must strive to be lights of positivity and encouragement in a world that is often hurtful and damaging.
