Driving home from work, I heard a radio advertisement that got my attention. It was for a computer program that checks e-mails as they are written. I was familiar with spell check and grammar check programs, but this was different. This was tone check. The software monitors the tone and wording of e-mails to make certain they are not overly aggressive, unkind, or mean-spirited.
As I listened to the announcer describe the features of this software, I wondered what it would be like to have something like that for my mouth. How many times have I reacted harshly instead of listening firstand later regretted the words I had spoken? Certainly a tone check would have protected me from responding so foolishly.
Paul saw the need for us as believers to check our speechespecially when talking to those who are not Christians. He said, Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one (Col. 4:6). His concern was that our speech be graceful, reflecting the beauty of our Savior. And it must be inviting to others. Talking with the right tone to unbelievers is vital to our ability to witness to them. Colossians 4:6 can be our tone check.
Sarah Palin is being complained about regarding her voice. Women are usually at a disadvantage when public speaking in large group meetings. The effort to project enthusiastically can be shrill.
Tone ... It does not tell us about the person, it does convey subtle messages about the persons mood. What a shame not to have the best candidate for high office based on tone of voice.
Shine your (Christ) light for all the world to see.
Happy Caturday, Mayor. Thank you again for your dedication. We appreciate you.