When presented with an opportunity, we choose to do and say kind things because Jesus has called us to that. He challenged us to be salt that adds savor and preservation to the world’s hopelessness and decay (Matthew 5:13). He called us to be light that casts out the world’s darkness (Matthew 5:14-16). We are committed to acting in ways that are kind and beneficial to others, especially with our speech. We pray for opportunities to be kind and encouraging because we want what we say to benefit others (Ephesians 4:29). This verbal kindness is an indication of the Holy Spirit’s presence (Galatians 5:22-23) as the Spirit conforms us to our Savior’s kindness and character (2 Corinthians 3:18). This kind of salty speech – not the profane, crude, and coarse speech often identified as salty talk – is an intentional effort to treat others with gentleness and respect because we want them to know our hope in Jesus (1 Peter 3:15-16). Let’s make the most of every opportunity to say good words that bless others and lead them to Jesus!
We’ve included Phil’s ToGather video from four years ago as an added blessing to our verse today:
Father, please forgive me for the careless words I have uttered this week. I understand that these careless words are sins in two ways. First, it is a sin because I said unkind and hurtful things. And second, it is a sin because I wasted an opportunity to be redemptive and helpful with my speech. Open my eyes, dear Lord, so that I can better see those people you have placed in my path to bless and encourage. Through the blessed name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.
