“Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders, making the most of the opportunity. Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person” (Colossians 4:5-6).
“Civility” is defined as “civilized conduct, courtesy, politeness” (merriam-webster.com). It follows, then, that civil discourse is the courteous and polite verbal interaction that is to be expected from civilized individuals. Sadly, it is something that is becoming more and more rare in our society. The privilege of free speech is being used as a licence to wallow in the gutter of vulgarity. Some who use words to make their living resort to crude language for its “shock value.” In a sound-bite world, un-civil discourse gets more press than civil discourse. Truth (or what we perceive as truth) is defended at all costs, even if that means speaking in ugly and ungodly ways.
Regardless of the verbal decay surrounding us, disciples of Christ are called to a higher standard. Our speech is ALWAYS to be full of grace. We understand that doors of opportunity can be open or closed depending on the words we use. Disagreeing with someone doesn’t give us permission to attack or demonize them. We can speak strong and clear words without hitting below the belt. Can we really be loving our enemies when we are calling them names and falsely accusing them?
“For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and creatures of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race. But no one can tame the tongue; it is a restless evil and full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God; from the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way” (James 3:7-10).
Lord, please forgive me for speaking without grace. Help me to tame my tongue and learn to speak in godly ways at all times and in all circumstances.
God loves you!
Mike
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