Daily text, for Monday, March 14. 2016

[Queen Esther]

Let your words always be gracious, seasoned with salt.—Col. 4:6.

In conversations with fellow believers, we use words that build up rather than tear down. (Eph. 4:29) When we talk to others about God’s Kingdom, we season our words “with salt.” We try to discern the needs and interests of householders and then choose our words accordingly. We remember that gracious words may open doors—and hearts. In addition, when explaining our beliefs, we try to let the Bible speak for us. Hence, we cite it as an authority and read from it whenever possible. We recognize that the Bible’s message is far more powerful than anything we could possibly say on our own authority. (Heb. 4:12) Discernment enables us to control our spirit, making us “slow to anger.” (Jas. 1:19) When others offend us, we try to discern what is behind their words or actions. Such insight can melt anger and help us to “overlook an offense.”—Prov. 19:11. w15 2/15 2:15, 16

[Blanchie DeGrate]

Always be kind and respectful to one another

[Queen Esther]

1 hour ago, Blanchie DeGrate said:

Always be kind and respectful to one another

Yes,  we  will  do,  bec. love  and  peace  always  in  Jehovah's  sense. Then  all  humans feeling  alot  better !  In  paradise,  we've  forgotten  the  word :  c o n f l i c t  wow  ;o)

[JW Insider]

In the next room, I can hear that political news from CNN is on the television, and various presidential candidates are bragging about their propositions and their positions on various issues. Even though they try to sound "seasoned with salt" during these speeches, they are still trying to dig at opponents, aggrandize themselves, brag about their resumes, and spin their failures as if they were accomplishments.

There is a big difference between speaking words "seasoned with salt" and those who try to get under each others' skin and then rub salt in the wounds.

It's times like this when we especially love the up-building speech of our brothers and sisters, and enjoy the preview of paradise.

I like the NWT cross references that show that the real context of the verse is about how we respond to others. Something to always improve in, especially in contexts such as these kinds of forums:

(Colossians 4:6) 6 Let your words always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should answer each person.

(1 Peter 3:15) 15 But sanctify the Christ as Lord in your hearts, always ready to make a defense before everyone who demands of you a reason for the hope you have, but doing so with a mild temper and deep respect.

(2 Timothy 2:23-25) 23 Further, reject foolish and ignorant debates, knowing that they produce fights. 24 For a slave of the Lord does not need to fight, but needs to be gentle toward all, qualified to teach, showing restraint when wronged, 25 instructing with mildness those not favorably disposed.. . .