Bible Verse for January 3rd.

Let your conversation be gracious and attractive, so that you will have the right response
for everyone.
Colossians 4:6
New Living Translation Bible

Many of us have witnessed someone speaking harshly and unkindly to another person. In
fact, we may have done the same thing too. We may have heard someone hurling insults
at a store clerk, shouting at a co-worker or a child and we feel so sorry for the person on
the 'receiving end'. As children of God, we should always speak to others in a kind and
gracious manner. Situations may arise when it's necessary to speak up, but our words
should be filled with love and compassion and should focus on the issue and not the
person. Harsh words diminish a person's self worth and sometimes leave lasting
emotional scars.
There are people who try to excuse their 'abrasive' speech by saying that's who they are,
that they 'tell it like it is'. There's no justification in that. We need to remember that what
we say is a reflection of our heart, what's really on the inside of us and speaks volumes
about our faith in God. Our words need to build others up, not tear them down. For many
of us, speaking graciously is a work in progress, but as we come before Almighty God
and renew our hearts and minds, our thoughts and ultimately, our speech will reflect
God's grace.
Thank You Lord for Your grace. God, help me to guard my words, to watch what I say.
Let my speech be filled with love and compassion and help me to use my words to edify
others. Let my life reflect You, Lord Jesus. Amen!

Be Blessed!
Lydia