Speak with Grace. Colossians 4:6. The use of words can be either helpful or harmful. When speech is delivered with grace, there is something dignified about it. That doesn't only mean it comes from us in the gracious way the Lord used when He spoke to people. "They wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of His mouth." It also means that our words can be used to minister grace to others. Powerful words spoken in an engaging way generate interest and deliver a message that is at least listened to and hopefully acted upon.
People who heard Him marveled at the “gracious words” the Lord Jesus Christ spoke when He taught as a man among men. Even those considered outcasts by others drew near to hear Him because, even though they knew what others thought, the Lord spoke graciously to them. I, too, must learn from Him how to speak with grace in my lips the words of truth that have been entrusted to me to speak for Him.
Some people will oppose the Gospel with hostility and challenge because they dislike the message when it convicts them of sin, righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come. Instead of trying to argue a point, it is best to carefully and kindly explain a passage of scripture that they may not know or perhaps have misunderstood the teaching in its context. Instead of thinking it is bad at first, hopefully, they'll learn that it's good.
Some people around me think they are so bad that God isn't interested in them. It is up to me, with the scriptures in hand, to try and lead them to the gracious Lord Jesus. Embarrassment and guilt have overwhelmed them, but if they hear of God's love, they might look to Him instead of constantly focusing on themselves.
The careless and indifferent people may need to be stopped with a firm rebuke given in Jesus' name. We do not have to be rude or find a reason to blame them for their attitude. A story or illustration can often make the careless stop and think about who they are and what they are doing when they ignore God. Honest, understandable words spoken kindly will not block the message of truth and salvation they need to hear.
Meaningful interaction in speech and respectful conversation between two people has its own impact. The tone of voice, facial expressions, and hand gestures help make the message of the Gospel clear and meaningful. Words spoken clearly in a simple dialogue can open doors that were previously closed. People can be disarmed and start to listen when the conversation differs from what they expected.
Questions should be answered unless they are asked mockingly or in anger. Someone who witnesses for the Lord must speak with grace, whether addressing someone you know or a stranger. The light of God's Word should direct listeners to core issues that affect their eternal soul. We can't dismiss childish words, but we also need to be careful not to be overly judgmental.
When "seasoned with salt," these words can be purifying and corrective. We don't need to use harsh words intentionally, but "a word fitly spoken" tends to address the real issues people often avoid. Such words don't have to be witty, but they should be wise. It's usually best not to be too casual about important matters. Ordinary vernacular speech isn't always spiritually healthy. When we speak God's truth, gracious words seasoned with clear, undeniable truths help give weight to our conversations.