We have to be very careful what we speak because our words have power. We can speak death or life into our situation. So let us start today making it a habit to think before we speak. Life isn’t about just talking, it’s about thinking too. “Death and life is in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” (Proverbs 18:21) KJV
There are some people that love to keep up confusion. They know just what buttons to push to make us go off on them. In situations such as these, we have to take a few minutes to calm down so we can think before we speak. Once we do this, we can speak words of wisdom instead of saying or doing something we will regret later. “The mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks justice.” (Psalm 37:30) NIV
If someone comes to us for advice, we shouldn’t just blurt out the first thing that comes to our mind. We should carefully listen to them by doing this, it will help us think before we speak. Then, we can respond with words that will inspire, encourage and uplift their spirit. “Anxiety in the heart of man causes depression, But a good word makes it glad.” (Proverbs 12:25)
Some people love to gossip about everyone’s business except their own. When they try to get us involved in their conversation, we have to think before we speak. Sometimes, it might be best to not say anything at all. As the old saying goes, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.”
“He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.” (Proverbs 20:19) NKJV
When we have a stressful day at work, we have to really watch what we say because it’s easy for us to hurt someone’s feelings. Nevertheless, it’s not what we say but how we say it. That’s why it’s so important for us to think before we speak. “Pleasant words are as an honeycomb, sweet to the soul, and health to the bones.” (Proverbs 16:24) KJV
Thinking before we speak will keep us out a lot of trouble. However, it’s up to us to control our own tongue and take responsibility for what we say. “Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles.” (Proverbs 21:23) KJV
So be encouraged and always remember to pray this prayer before we speak: “Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips.” (Psalm 141:3) NLT
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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