In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to get caught up in our own thoughts and judgments. This is where the timeless wisdom of Colossians 4:5-6 comes in, offering guidance on how to live and interact with those around us:
“Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”
What great advice! If you’re like me and often wonder how to treat others, this passage provides a clear roadmap. It reminds us to share our experiences, knowledge, and good judgment with love, especially with those who may not share our faith or values but are still in need of what we can offer—without judgment.
Notice it doesn’t say “walk in judgment” or act as if you know it all. Instead, it calls for wisdom, not to force our opinions. It’s about extending a hand, not pointing a finger. We can’t give our full hand to help when a finger is all we offer.
The next part of the passage focuses on our speech. Imagine if we all spoke with grace—unmerited favor. How many conflicts could we avoid if we added just a pinch of salt to our conversations?
Salt, when added to food, enhances flavor and leaves you thirsting for more. It also plays a crucial role in baking, slowing down other ingredients so they can work together harmoniously. Similarly, when our words are seasoned with “salt,” they add a positive touch, leaving people wanting more of those uplifting interactions, and over time, things tend to turn out well.
Despite its simplicity, this advice can be challenging to follow, but it’s achievable if we ask for God’s help to love like he does.
As I am writing this before the results of an our much heated election, I feel this advice is incredibly pertinent. I’ve caught myself judging others based on their political preferences, sometimes adding too much “salt.” Whether it’s someone wearing a MAGA hat or sporting blue attire, I realize I don’t truly know them any more than they know me.
This passage has reminded me to step back and reconsider how I approach these situations. It encourages me to engage with openness rather than assumptions, fostering understanding instead of division.
A Call to Action
Let’s take Colossians 4’s advice to heart and walk in wisdom, speaking with grace and a dash of salt. In doing so, we can bridge gaps and build connections with those around us, regardless of differences.
After all, we all need a little good advice now and then. Let’s keep trying, growing, and learning together even if the election results aren’t the ones we wanted.