Graciousness. A word that is not used very much any more, a characteristic not seen often. Yet it draws us to a person and makes being around them so pleasant.
Graciousness is:
- kindness
- warm courtesy
- tact and propriety: responded to the insult with gracious humor
- merciful or compassionate nature
- courteous
- graceful
- forgiving
A gracious spirit makes a woman much more attractive, while a selfish heart can make the most beautiful woman unpleasant to be around. Selfishness tarnishes the appearance and ruins whatever good one might be attempting to do.
A gracious, wise woman may see weaknesses in others but does not point them out or become intent on changing them. She is kind, courteous, and respectful.
We should be sensitive to others’ needs, not condescending or resentful. We should display an attitude that springs from our hearts full of kindness, mercy and forgiveness.
Our words reflect the attitude of our heart. Wise words that are carefully thought about before being spoken are gracious, while foolish words that are quickly spoken without thought can be damaging. We should speak with kindess and truth so that our words do not scar the heart and damage others.
Words can scar forever. They are like driving a nail into a piece of wood. We can remove the nail, but the hole remains. So it is with our words…once spoken, the damage can never be undone.
Graciousness is something that we have to work on…it is a polish and refinement, much like manners. Many people can be polished but have no heart for others. Our graciousness should flow from a godly character, from a heart committed to the Lord. Then we can be used to draw others to the Lord.
In this busy life that never seems to stop, it is easy to get overwhelmed and impatient. Our schedules are go, go, go. It is hard to keep a quiet, gentle spirit and be gracious when we are trying to keep our head above water.
This next week, try to slow down. Breathe. Take time to enjoy life. Treasure the time with those you love. Be an example of love, kindness, gentleness and graciousness to people around you. People will know there is a difference in you.
Have a wonderful weekend, friends!!
It is so sad that this is true. And if we had more peace we wouldn’t be so go go go and making us so self involved.
Back in the spring, I had to deal with a difficult situation and some unreasonable people. I was tempted to speak my mind and “let them have it!” But, I kept reminding myself of the verse in Proverbs that says, A Gracious Woman Retaineth Honor! Rehearsing this verse kept me from reacting in a way I would have regretted!!! Thank you for the excellent reminder to be gracious!