An essential principle in effective communication is choosing when to speak. Some people will say everything they think without considering that words impact people as significantly as any other behavior. We will remember words of criticism for a lifetime.
Evaluating the impact our words have on others is a wise choice. Proverbs 15:2 carries a warning: "The tongue of the wise conveys knowledge, but the mouth of the foolish gushes folly." We are to employ wisdom in the usage of words because harsh criticism seldom produces positive change. Carefully choosing affirming words builds a bridge to effective communications.
Our response to unwholesome speech can model patience and a caring attitude by controlling what and when we reply. Proverbs 12:8 offers guidance for these situations. "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise is healing". Carefully choosing words that please the Lord God brings his blessings into our lives.
__________________
[Jesus said]…”a man’s words flow out of what fills his
heart. A good man gives out good – from the goodness stored in his heart; a bad
man gives out evil – from his store of evil. I tell you that men will have to
answer at the day of judgment for every careless word they utter – for it is
your words that will acquit you and your words that will condemn you.”
No comments:
Post a Comment