I could not number the conversations I’ve had in which the phrase “that is just semantics” has been uttered. Typically, what the phrase suggests is that both parties are making the same point but with different words. On a recent road trip, I was eager to get to the “destination” while the driver couldn’t wait to arrive at the “final stop.” By the end of the day, we had ridden in the car far too long, and the ‘Long Drives and Good Times’ playlist had lost its charm by the twelfth playthrough, and I had just eaten the last sour cream and onion Pringle. While it might be true that the particular words we choose to describe a road trip have little consequence, too often we show little care for our vocabulary across the board.

 

For a number of years, I worked at a para-church ministry that served as a shelter and resource centre for vulnerable youth. I was involved in several meetings with other service providers in which we discussed the topic of homelessness. It was always interesting to me that there seemed to be a new term to classify those living on the street at almost every meeting: homeless, houseless, unhoused, unsheltered, person experiencing houselessness. It’s important that we speak of people with respect and dignity. The words being used painted homelessness with gloomy language. Our words shaped our perspective.

 

At first glance, this might not seem like an issue, but on closer inspection it can become quite problematic. I assume that you do not look fondly upon the problems of your life. They are nuisances, unwelcome situations that frustrate and make daily life more difficult. They are to be overcome. Without intending to sound harsh, the people in those meetings were using language which portrayed our brothers and sisters on the street as problems to be solved. Our language betrays our feelings, whether intentional or not.

 

So, what does this mean for us in our faith?

 

First, I hope we will be aware not only of what we believe, but also of how we speak of those we engage throughout our everyday life. The way we speak about others shapes how we think and feel about them. One of my moments of greatest conviction was when a pastor encouraged me to actively remind myself every time I spoke to someone that they are everlasting beings with eternity ahead of them–either with Christ or without.

 

Secondly, our words about God ought to match up with the truth of the Scriptures. Too often we can find ourselves bemoaning a “distant” or “dismissive” God who is indifferent to our sorrows because that is the way it feels in the moment. In those times of struggle, preach truth to yourself in order that your heart may soften to receive it. He is

 

“…the Lord, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness” (Exodus 34:6, ESV).

 

Lastly, remember that as Christians we are ambassadors of Christ to a watching world. I have always been a proponent of the idea that our convictions, however strong, need not dictate our disposition. In Colossians 4:5-6 (NIV), Paul encourages his listeners to speak to “outsiders” in such a way that is “…always full of grace [and] seasoned with salt…” Before you say that comment or make that post, pause and ask yourself if the words you’ve chosen will serve to beckon those listening to come closer to Christ.

 

As you find yourself considering all the words you’ve just read and wondering which matter and which don’t, here are some questions to take with you:

 

• • Is the way that you speak about yourself and others in line with how God speaks? (Gen.1:27, Lk.12:6-7, Ps.139:13-14).

 

• • What are the “problems” in your life that could become opportunities with a slight shift of perspective?

 

• • Are my conversations and language seasoned with the heart of the gospel? In other words, is every word I say for the sake of shining the light of Christ so that others may live in it?