Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of our
mouth, but only what is helpful for building others up according to
their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.
Ephesians 4:29
Dear
Friends, let me tell you there is power in our words. Our words can
build or destroy others. Words once spoken can never be taken back. Later, we
might regret what we spoke , but to the person who heard it, especially if they
are our dear ones, the hurt and the effect of the words will remain for a
long time and sometimes will never fade from their heart and mind. This could
even lead to a break in relationships inside the family.
We read
in the Bible James 3:8-10- that no man can tame the
tongue. Out of the same mouth comes blessing and cursing. This should not be
so. We need to guard our mouth from speaking evil of others, gossiping and
grumbling. Whatever comes out of our mouth proceeds from our heart. If we
harbor evil thoughts which are against the commandments of God, we will speak
out the same. If we meditate on whatever is pure, honorable and trustworthy, we
will speak peace and goodness to others.
How do we
try to order our conversations aright? It is not at all easy as we all
know. First step is for us to consciously make an effort and determine to
speak the right things. Recently I came across (a sort of slang
acronym) which could help us to focus on choosing our words before speaking
aloud.
T.H.I.N.K
TRUE
HELPFUL
INSPIRING
NECESSARY
KIND
TRUE: Let us always strive to speak the truth. That does not
mean we can speak the truth bluntly in a way which would cause distress.
In some situations, speaking the truth may cause more harm than good. In that
case, it is better to keep quiet and not speak at all. If we are to speak the
truth to correct someone, we need to confront the person in love and speak in a
manner which shows that we are correcting them because of our love for them,
and not because we wish to hurt or criticize them. We need to pray and ask God
for wisdom to know when to talk and when to keep quiet.
HELPFUL: Let our words be helpful to others. When we come across
someone going through a difficult season, let us not add to their worries by
exaggerating the situation, and stating all the negative aspects. Instead, let
us offer any help or assistance within our limits or seek advice from others
who might have gone through a similar situation, and can help to assist.
INSPIRING: Let us speak to inspire others, to encourage and build
others up and not to discourage or bring them down. Let us speak positive
words, to motivate others, see the good in them and help to bring out the best
in them.
NECESSARY: Let us try to speak only when necessary. In some cases, we cause
more distress by speaking out of place. In certain situations, we do not have
the right words to offer comfort. In such situations, the best help we
can offer a friend who is going through a tough time, is to just sit with them
and let them know you are there to offer support and encouragement.
KIND: Let us always be kind to one another. It is easy to speak words
in anger or retaliation which comes out automatically without thinking. But this
would lead only to more trouble and heart break. Most of the time
whenever a person slashes out in anger, there is often an underlying reason
which comes out in frustration and rage. If we respond in kindness, we can help
to subdue the anger and bring calmness. Let us use words of comfort and
kindness in our conversations to bring peace and joy to others and not
humiliation, rejection or disappointments.
So, dear friends, from today let us make a decision to order our
conversations wisely and as written in Philippians 4:8-
Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
Comments
Your suggestion is interesting and looks like a way to correct myself. Thank you for your inspiring words and advice.