3:181 – Messaging

#faithbites #faithjourney messaging

On our trip to Branson, we saw many billboards. Some said things like: “I love America and if you don’t leave”, “Pray continuously”, “Thanks essential workers”, and one sign said “I’m an old gun owner who is firm on my religion”.

When we talk, we are constantly sending messages about our beliefs and who we are as people. What is your messaging? Are you getting the message across you want to. Is it being heard the way you want it to. Sometimes we need to change the messaging to make sure the message is heard.

Scripture

• Proverbs 15:1 – A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.
• Colossians 4:6 – Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.
• Psalm 19:14 – Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

Reflection

I have seen a lot of people who intentionally message to stir up anger and hate. Others, don’t understand why their words are harmful. God wants us to be strong and courageous in our faith but also be kind and season our words with salt.

This isn’t easy especially when we talk about the four topics you are told to avoid: sex, money, religion, and politics. These are the four that can turn a nice night into a war. We shouldn’t avoid these topics as these make us who we are. We need to see how our words are taken and modify it. It is ok to change the wording and not lose the point you are trying to make.

Let us try to give a soft answer seasoned with salt to be strong in our faith but loving and kind. This isn’t easy, but through practice and trusted friends, we can get better at it.

Challenge

Take one thing that you normal say or believe and ask someone who speaks truth to you, what they hear you say. Your messaging may be right on target or you may have missed the mark. If you have, work on it and grow.

Prayer

Lord, help us speak clear and true as you did when in earth. Let us be strong in our faith and beliefs while still being kind and loving. This is a tough balance to strike but you are capable of all things. Be with us and give us your patience and love. In your name, Amen.