Let Your Speech Always Be with Grace

Paul set a high standard for communication when he wrote that our speech should always be “with grace, seasoned with salt” (Colossians 4:6). His admonishment for gracious conversation should guide our interactions with everyone, no matter the circumstance.

When Paul wrote these words, he was under Roman guard, waiting in Rome for his appeal to Caesar. At the time, Paul was not viewed favorably by many Romans, who saw him as a leader of a controversial Jewish sect. It's easy to imagine that, while under guard, he faced unkind remarks from his captors. Yet, despite this, Paul still insisted that our speech should always reflect grace, seasoned with salt—no exceptions.

This is a high standard, and it’s one that we cannot simply dismiss. So, where do we begin? The answer lies in the heart, because our words flow from what’s inside (Matthew 12:34). If we want our speech to be full of grace, we must first have a heart of compassion.

The Example of Jesus

Jesus, who was full of both grace and truth (John 1:14), is the perfect example of this. Throughout the Gospels, we see Jesus displaying deep compassion for those around Him. In one particular instance, after healing the multitudes for three days, He expressed concern for the people’s physical needs.

Matthew 15:32 records Jesus saying:
“I have compassion on the multitude, because they have now continued with Me three days and have nothing to eat. And I do not want to send them away hungry, lest they faint on the way.” (NKJV)

Notice that Jesus didn’t blame the people for their hunger, nor did He chastise them for not preparing. Instead, He responded with compassion, wanting to meet their needs before they left.

What does this teach us about grace in speech? When we have a compassionate heart, our words are more likely to reflect that grace. Harsh, judgmental speech often comes from a place of indifference or even condemnation. If we judge others or are quick to criticize, we’ll find it nearly impossible to speak with grace.

Paul’s Example Under Roman Guard

Returning to Paul, we see him embodying this principle even in his difficult circumstances. In his letter to the Philippians, he wrote:
“It has become evident to the whole palace guard, and to all the rest, that my chains are in Christ.” (Philippians 1:13)

Though Paul was chained, his speech and conduct clearly communicated that he wasn’t just a prisoner—he was a servant of Christ. Despite his situation, the Roman soldiers and the palace guard saw that Paul’s chains were part of God’s plan, and they observed his gracious demeanor.

Paul didn’t harbor bitterness or express anger at his captors. Instead, he spoke with compassion and hope, even to those in authority over him. In Acts 26:29, when speaking to King Agrippa, Paul responded with grace, saying:
“I would to God that not only you, but also all who hear me today, might become both almost and altogether such as I am, except for these chains.” (NKJV)

Paul’s heart of compassion extended even to those who were in authority over him—people who may have been harsh or unkind. Paul recognized that they were without God and without hope, which is why he longed to share the good news of the Kingdom of God with them (Acts 28:31).

Growing in the Grace of Christ leads to Gracious Words

Whether we’re in difficult circumstances or speaking to people who seem unkind, the message is clear: Our speech should always reflect grace, seasoned with salt. This doesn’t mean we ignore the truth or avoid speaking up when necessary. Rather, it means we approach others with compassion, understanding that our words have the power to build up or tear down.

So, let’s start with our hearts. If we have compassion like Jesus and Paul, we can speak with grace, even in the most challenging situations. And in doing so, we will reflect “growing in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior.” 

May each of you have a peaceful Sabbath and for those going through challenging times, may the God of all grace who called us to His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after you have suffered a while, perfect, strengthen, and settle you.  (1 Peter 5:10)