But now, put away all the following: anger, wrath, malice, slander, and filthy language from your mouth. Do not lie to one another, since you have put off the old self with its practices and have put on the new self. You are being renewed in knowledge according to the image of your Creator. 

Colossians 3:8-10

Gossip and slander are often associated with high school girls—jealousy, insecurity, boys. Girls who gossip are mean. However, as we grow into women, we refine our vernacular so that when we speak to friends, it’s tempting to justify our idle talk. This is so much of a worldly phenomenon, entire TikTok and Instagram accounts are dedicated to vicious storytelling and grudges. We learned to associate saltiness (bitterness) and slander with loyalty to a person, brand, or one’s self.

These motives and forms of entertainment are the opposite of Christ’s expectations for the Church, His bride. Once we have accepted Christ as our personal Savior, the Holy Spirit resides in us and we are called to renew our minds (Romans 12:2). He instructs us to be “salt of the earth” by speaking with edifying words, preserving goodness, and enriching one another’s lives (Matthew 5:13).

As Paul reminds us through the New Testament, being a disciple of Christ promises that uncomfortable—and even devastating—times will come. When we feel salty towards our in-laws, church member, neighbor, or a situation, are we being “salt of the earth?”

Lord, I truly strive to be a better disciple and more like You. Help me in controlling my thoughts and my tongue. Please forgive me for times I have been judgmental or unforgiving. When I am tempted with feelings of jealousy or suspicion, remind me to pray for the victims of my thoughts or words. Rather than stay “salty,” help me to remember to be Your salt of the earth. Amen.

Taylor Newton