Words are small things with enormous power, and each day gives us dozens of chances to love or wound. This familiar “Think” acronym, is a simple but effective way to carry that into the week:
Before you speak, THINK.
T — Is it true? Because “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks,” (Luke 6:45) and truth keeps the atmosphere clear.
H — Is it helpful? Ephesians 4:29 says to speak “only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs.”
I — Is it inspiring? “If you think something positive about someone, say something. Tell them. Your words can be healing, strengthening, uplifting – a gift.
N — Is it necessary? “My mom said to me once, “Every comment doesn’t require a response.” Sometimes love speaks; sometimes love stays silent.
K — Is it kind? Kind speech is what love looks like when it comes out of our mouth. Kindness is not softness — it’s clarity without cruelty.
This week may your speech be an instrument to make the Lord’s love audible to others – and a blessing to your own soul as well.
(Special thanks to Karen Woolridge for reminding me of it)
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