March through Colossians - 4:5-6

A couple of observations of what Paul is saying here that really challenge me:

1. "Walk in wisdom toward outsiders" assumes that we will actually be spending time with "outsiders" (non-Christians).
2. In terms of our interaction with outsiders, "walk," "making the best use of the time," "let your speech be...", and "to answer each person" assumes a whole range of interactions with non-Christians, not just a project-oriented exchange here and there.
3. On speech, the ESV Study Bible connects this "seasoned with salt" metaphor with Jesus saying we should be "the salt of the earth." "When applied to conversation, the metaphor suggests speaking in an interesting, stimulating, and wise way." Sometimes hard for me.
4. "Let your speech always be gracious." Grace is what defines us as believers, and the deeper we go in our appreciation of it and thankfulness to God for it, the more it will flow out of us towards others who need it like we do.