Choose Your Responses with Care

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. 

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[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.”

~Matthew 12:34-37 Phillips – New Testament in Modern English

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Words Matter – Use Your Filter!

An essential principal for effective communication is recognizing the impact the choice of words has on others. Words spoken impulsively and inappropriately can damage another person's self-esteem and self-worth. Those speaking so thoughtlessly may never consider the emotional  impact of their words.

God designed each individual with the capacity to filter words before they are spoken. The key is being sensitive to warning signals that alert us to the danger and inappropriateness of our language. It is better to choose what you say rather than say whatever you impulsively think, especially when emotionally upset.

Our choice of words either builds a bridge to understanding and feelings of security or creates disharmony and alienation. If you spoke to others as if you were addressing the Lord Jesus Christ, would it make a difference in your choice of words and the tone of your voice? Is it possible for others to see Jesus reflected in how and what you communicate?  

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Words of wisdom come from the wise, but fools speak foolishness.

~Proverbs 15:2 Contemporary English Version

 Patience and gentle talk can convince a ruler and overcome any problem.

~Proverbs 25:15 Contemporary English Version

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Subscribe to the Attitudes Answers podcast on your favorite podcast platform to hear this and other 2-minute features 3 days every week.