“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.”
– Colossians 4:6
![]() Continuing our focus on the power of words, yesterday we spoke of one man’s attempt to unify the world through one language and usher in world peace. It’s important to honor culture and language as we travel, especially internationally. Learning basic greetings, statements, and questions in another country’s language shows you care, even if most people there speak English and you are an English speaker. If you put in a small amount of effort, you will be amazed at the benefits you will receive. On a trip to Paris, I learned that very often Americans would visit and never learn any French or think about the culture of Paris. If you go into a bakery in Paris, the proud owner of the shop will greet anyone who comes in with a polite “Bonjour, good morning.” And every French local who walks in will say, “Bonjour monsieur, bonjour.” This simple greeting connects two individuals in a warm exchange. This is a basic greeting that I made sure to say when I was in Paris. I want us to recognize that language is such a bridge builder. No matter our language, there is a way to communicate with others. Friend, there are right and wrong ways to speak to someone when we talk to them. The discrepancy is more prevalent in text messaging since it is challenging to discern emotions. If you say something funny, end your text with “ha ha,” so they know it’s a joke! There are many misunderstandings in texting, so I recommend serious topics be discussed in person or over the phone. Talk to others in a way that is encouraging, forgiving, gracious, and kind; this will demonstrate Jesus’ love for them! |
Prayer
Father, show me how to use encouraging, gracious, and kind words.
Reflection
When you speak to others, do you demonstrate the love of Jesus? What can you do to honor the cultures and languages of other countries?
If you’re unable to attend your local church or need some additional weekly inspiration, be sure to tune into Hour of Power every Sunday at 11:00 a.m. PT on TBN or watch online at hourofpower.org/episode.
3 Responses
There are so many misunderstandings in texting. We need to return to face to face conversations where we see each other and can listen to the nuances in conversation. As it is communication is like two bots sending sound waves. No wonder there’s problems! But we have choices! Let’s get back to basics.
Good day Pastor Bobby and staff of Hour Of Power. While I am a member of a local church, I appreciate all the words of wisdom you offer every week.
I love the way you expressed how we should be careful in our communication with others; I especially appreciate what you said about the French. That is absolutely so true. I am a French scholar. I studied the language and culture.
Greetings friends! Thank you for addressing this topic! With so many ways to communicate in today’s world, I feel we communicate less- the “let’s sit down and discuss this” has become a time waster and too much of a burden. We need to slow down and go back to connecting face to face!! Oh and by the way une table pour deux, s’il vous plaît.