Colossians 4:6  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Colossians 4:6  Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

How many times have we purposed in our hearts that we are not going to be hateful or backbiting to someone when a certain topic comes up in the conversation?  And, what do we do? Yes, we do exactly what we said we would not do!  God’s Word has some specific directions for each of us in this matter.  James 4:6 says, “God opposes the proud but shows favor to the humble.”  

                What is humility? Humility is NOT…thinking less of yourself!  Humility IS…not thinking of yourself at all!  When you are full of grace (seasoned with salt), you are spreading goodness, cheer, and concern for your fellowman.  Your words will become a blessing and not a cursing to your brother.  After all, isn’t that what Jesus taught in Luke 6:28 Bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.

                Teachers can create even more conflict by the way they answer a student or a parent in an emotional issue.  Purpose in your heart to extend grace to those you serve through gentleness and kindness–even when they are not showing you the grace of Christ.  As school teachers, we are the example to be followed.  Let Christ dwell within you richly (Colossians. 3:16) and let His light shine through your words (and tone) to reflect his unconditional acceptance even when others are being unlovely.  Remember, a soft answer turns away wrath.

Dear God, Give me the strength to empty me of myself enough to learn humility.  Teach me to be slow to speak.  Give me soft words when I do speak.  Fill me with your grace and let it overflow in my daily walk.  Let the love of Christ within me cover a multitude of sin in others.