We Can Say All the Right Things in All the Wrong Ways

We can say all the right things in all the wrong ways.

Even saying there is an absolute truth or only one right way seems rather unpopular these days. And one who holds a worldview that would claim such a thing is seen as arrogant, insensitive, and unloving.

In an effort to not mince words or speak too vaguely about the topic at hand, when I say, “We can say all the right things in all the wrong ways,” the “we” is “me” (and you too if you hold fast to a Biblical Worldview), the “things” are Biblical Truths held by those with a Biblical Worldview.

When Jesus said, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.” (John 14:6), we take Him literally, trust Him completely, and seek Him continually. 

When we do that, we find that He never changes, but we should be changing everyday as we become more like Him in our actions and attitudes — in everything we say and do.

So, in these conversations we’re having, knowing we want to say the right thing in the right way, with God’s help, let’s work on our tone, temperament, and timing.

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TONE — “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” ~ Ephesians‬ ‭4:29‬

“Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person.” ~ Colossians‬ ‭4:6‬

We can say the right thing in the wrong tone.

Instead we should be full of grace, seasoned with salt, avoiding any unwholesome talk.

TEMPERAMENT — “For those who live according to the flesh set their minds on the things of the flesh, but those who live according to the Spirit set their minds on the things of the Spirit.” ~ Romans‬ ‭8:5‬

We can say the right thing with the wrong temperament.

Instead we should put off our flesh, and be led by His Spirit.

TIMING — “preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching, but having itching ears they will accumulate for themselves teachers to suit their own passions, and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” ~ ‭‭2 Timothy‬ ‭4:2-4‬

“Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” ~ Ephesians‬ ‭5:15-16

We can say the right thing at the wrong time.

Instead we should remember His timing is perfect, and waiting on Him is always worth it.

So, speak the truth boldly, but as you speak, yield to the Spirit, and do it with love, grace, and humility. 

Humility is key to allow grace in the space where hearts can be open to receive the truth that is spoken.

You can say what you mean without saying it mean.

Seek the truth before you speak the truth, so when you speak the truth others will want to seek the truth.