ROL: Grace

Listen:

“Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.” Colossians 4:6 (NRSV)

“Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only what is useful for building up, as there is need, so that your words may give grace to those who hear.” Ephesians 4:29 (NRSV)

Reflect:

Isn’t it wonderful to be loved and affirmed? My husband, Neil, and I have been traveling these past 3 weeks visiting friends and family who are so pleased to see us it makes us feel great! But what of those who don’t feel the same way about us? Now that we’re home and facing some difficult relationships. How will we speak with those people?  

In His grace, God loves and affirms each one of us. The more we rest in that truth the more we will be able to give grace and speak with grace. And if we mess up we return to our gracious God for forgiveness and help. 

Which word or words in these verses stood out for you? I have used some of them in this prayer. Please use whichever part of the prayer you find helpful or maybe write your own one or two sentence prayer and use it this week, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide you and help you with this.

Prayer of Response:

“Your grace is enough Lord, help me to know and understand that more and more. 

Salted speech. May your truths be so much in my mind and heart that they spill out in my speaking.

Help me to listen carefully to others so that I hear what they are asking and can offer them an answer.

Lord forgive me for those times I have spoken ill (evil talk)of others. May my words be worth hearing.

Holy Spirit, I ask that you will give me specific words of encouragement that will bless and build up those I am with.

The idea that my words can give grace is amazing, please may that happen Lord.

Thank you, thank you for your loving grace.”

Submitted by Elaine Davis

Elaine is retired, British and living in the UK. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, sister, friend, but above all else a child of God. Also, since June, an elected church leader (board member) and finding it tough.