Proverbs 25:11 – A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver.
When I was a boy, my mother used to say, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, then don’t say anything at all.” This often repeated axiom is rather true. While sometimes we have bad news or even rebuke to deliver to someone, we never need to be mean spirited about it. As Christians, this idea should be applied broadly for Christ’s sake. No matter what our position or role, His truth should always be accommanied by love for the building up of the saints (Ephesians 4:11-16).
Encouragement is always better than unadorned criticism. Even when we rebuke someone, it should be in hope for change. Jesus used the truth to impact lives for the better everytime He spoke. Words have power, and we must use them wisely and judiciously. Words can hurt as well as heal. When the words we must use will cause pain, we should apply them carefully for the benefit of the hearer understanding that not everyone thinks like us. The same words can be interpreted differently.
When you write, type, or speak today, remember to apply salt to bring out the savor of the words. They will be all the more sweet for your efforts. May the Word become flesh bless your efforts today.
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