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T.H.I.N.K. Before You Speak
T.H.I.N.K. Before You Speak
Proverbs 10:19 - “When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” Years ago, at a friend’s house, I saw an unforgettable refrigerator magnet with the challenge to T.H.I.N.K. before we speak.
T - True. Before I speak, is the content true? “Lying lips are an abomination to the LORD, but those who deal faithfully are His delight.” (Prov. 12:22)
H - Helpful. Before I speak, is the content and motive helpful? “There is one who speaks rashly like the thrusts of a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” (Prov. 12:18)
I - Innocent. Before I speak, is the content and motive pure and innocent? “Evil plans are an abomination to the LORD, but pleasant words are pure.” (Prov. 15:26)
N - Necessary. Before I speak, is the content necessary? “For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down.” (Prov. 26:20)
K - Kind. Before I speak, is the content and tone kind? “Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” (Prov. 16:24)
No, this doesn’t mean all our conversations are like rainbows and butterflies. In relationships, there will always be conflict to navigate. But if we’ll commit to T.H.I.N.K. before we speak, even the hardest conversations will glorify God.
