The Grace That Saves Us
One of our dear friends heads an international Christian ministry. He and his wife have lived in Europe for more than twenty years.
We met them for dinner while Steve and I were in London a few years ago, and I asked him what he thought Christians in America needed most.
This man travels around the world several times a year, so his perspective embraces more of a global view of Christianity than ours does.
Colossians 4:6 Commentary On Grace-Filled Speech
Without hesitation, he said, “Grace.”
Wow! A quick and concise answer.
He went on to explain that he grieved over the petty arguments he witnessed so much of the time when visiting with believers in the United States.
He saw the lost condition of much of the world as more important than many of the “in-house” differences we squabbled about.
I was reminded of many cutting words Steve endured when he worked as the religion editor at a Colorado newspaper.
Meaning Of “Let Your Speech Be Always With Grace” Explained
Most of these hurtful remarks came from Christians who were critical of him for covering religious stories in an impartial way.
And lest I be ungracious myself, let me confess that I have been the queen of sarcasm on many occasions.
Paul called us to speak the truth in love (Eph. 4:15) and Solomon told us that iron sharpens iron (Prov. 27:17), but I do think the “evil one” wreaks havoc among believers when he tempts us to emphasize judgmental words instead of gracious interaction.
Colossians 4:6 Bible Study Guide
One of the most gracious people I know is my friend Marian. She is a sincerely kind person who always gives people the benefit of the doubt.
I have been with her and seen her words and manner turn a potential confrontation into a friendly encounter.
Biblical Perspective On Colossians 4:6
A few years ago we were in a grocery store checkout lane when a woman butted in front of Marian. I couldn’t believe it, and I was ready to tell this woman to step to the rear.
Before I could say a word, Marian smiled at her and stepped back to let her in. “Do you live around here?” Marian asked.
Colossians 4:6 Niv Meaning And Application
The woman looked surprised but answered. A few more gracious comments from Marian had this woman smiling and talking like they were old friends.
I don’t know if God will ever use that brief encounter to bring that woman to a knowledge of Jesus (if she didn’t know him already), but I do know that Marian’s attitude reflected a light that drew the woman in; it reflected the grace that God gives each of us.