MAY 26

Philippians 2:14-15
Memorise Colossians 4:6
“Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt…”

It is possible to be good witnesses for Christ even though we may not be speaking about things that are directly related to spiritual matters. God-honouring conduct can do more for Christ than even the most eloquent Bible teacher or the fieriest Gospel preacher who conducts himself badly. Indeed, Charles Spurgeon, arguably the most gifted preacher in recent times, understood this from a lesson he learnt the hard way. Though he was a fiery preacher and respected pastor, yet he was also a cigar smoker (the grave harmful and addictive effects of tobacco were not as well documented then, and did not have the same negative stigma it has today). One day he noticed a tobacco store peddling “Spurgeon’s Tobacco” and was quite disturbed by having his name used to promote this habit. He later chose to put down his Christian liberty and cease his smoking habit so that others would not be stumbled.

Sadly poor conduct leaves a more lasting impression than good, as was the case with Spurgeon. Till today, many online articles use the fact that he smoked to justify this habit among Christians. This is why Christians have to be especially careful with their own conduct. In biblical times, salt was a very valuable commodity. It was used not only to improve the taste of food, but also, in an era when refrigerators and electricity did not exist, salt was used to preserve food from spoiling. It was even used as a form of currency for paying Roman soldiers. Just as salt keeps food from rotting, it is grace that keeps our conduct and speech holy and free from corruption.

Speaking a kind word to someone when needed, maintaining on a polite and reasonable disposition and always being sensitive to the effect our behaviour has on others is to show forth grace in our speech and conduct. Even in school, at work or at home, we should fulfil our responsibilities with willingness, integrity and pure intentions (Philippians 2:14-15). This goes a long way towards making others notice that we are different from the world. Through this, God may grant opportunities to encourage fellow believers and to share the Gospel of hope and salvation through Christ with the lost.

Thought: Witnessing can be passive (by our example) or active (by evangelism). Both are important.
Prayer: Heavenly Father, help us that our speech be always with grace and seasoned with salt.