THINK BEFORE SPEAKING

Think Before Speaking  

By Robert Schaetzle 

“Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles?’ James 3:5 NKJV

One evening, I noticed something posted on the bulletin board in our church choir room. Someone had the word ‘think’ written out in an acrostic with each letter given a representation. The Apostle James cautions about being ‘slow to speak and quick to hear, and listen.’ [James 1:19]

T-is it true? Words spoken in haste can, and will, destroy a person’s character, especially if it’s only half-truth and the wrong half. Before retiring, I interacted through public service, and would often say, “Is this what I understand you are asking me?” It's important to not only get the complete story, but to make sure you fully understand what the person is saying.

H-is it helpful? Will what’s said build up and encourage others, or are words spoken just to make noise?

I-is it inspiring? Once again, will it stimulate, encourage, and reflect our Lord’s love and character?

N-is it necessary? Often, much is said that should not be shared with everyone. Speaking for sake of wanting to say something does not always result in communication of value.

K-is it kind? Kindness goes a long way when you represent our Lord’s royalty. What we say and how we share our thoughts should be done with gentleness and affection.

Proverbs 10:19 shares, ‘In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.’ NKJV 

We build better communications skills, even as writers, when we learn, fewer words say more when used with selected purpose.