Day 117/260: Read Colossians 4

“I’m going to say what I have to say and if you are offended that’s your problem, not mine.” Have you ever thought this way?

Perhaps we have overreacted and overcorrected when it comes to “political correctness.” There are some folks who won’t say anything and won’t stand for anything for fear of offending someone. Then there are others who are brash and rude and don’t care in the least what others think.

As with most things, there is a better way of doing things. Inspiration is crystal clear that Christians should “contend earnestly for the faith” (Jude 3). Peter tells us that we should “always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you,” but he also qualifies that statement, saying that we should do so “with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15).

Here is how Paul put it: “Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one” (Colossians 4:6). Speak in such a way that even if someone disagrees with what you say, you won’t leave a bitter taste in their mouth because of how you say it.

We need a little more salt in our speech. Do not attack others who disagree with you; seek to understand them, find common ground, and work from there.

Memory (Copy into a notebook 5-10 times)

Colossians 3:1. If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ is, sitting at the right hand of God.

Pray

Pray for wisdom in teaching and leading others to Christ.