THINK!

Our speech/comments/thoughts--do they parallel wholesomeness and exemplify godliness in our daily lives?  Ephesians 4:29 tells us to watch that what we say is not unwholesome.  I remember, often at times, what a friend and brother in Christ often said regarding how we talk--he would say that thing which flaps between our teeth/gums/lips can get us into much difficulty if we are not careful.  Isn't that very true and a good reminder to be careful not only what we say.......but how.

I like acronyms, most are pretty relevant, some are a little silly.  This one I came across recently is one of the few reasons where my introverted/quiet personality is favorable.

THINK
T-Truthful;  H-Helpful (Beneficial);  I- Inspiring (Encouraging); N- Necessary; K-Kind

We have all heard the wise proverbial saying 'quick to listen, slow to speak' (James 1:19-20).....or 'think before you speak'.  It is so tempting at times to give a piece of our minds, quickly become angry, spew off at someone (possibly even one we love and care deeply for)......I hope we can take this to heart and avoid loose lips in our speech and instead make it a point to speak with love, kindness, compassion, and for encouragement to the listener.

Do you ever wonder regarding the fact that we have two ears.............and only one mouth?......hmmm!

Check out these other passages that God has provided to help us take our speech seriously:  Blessings in your pursuit.......TO

Matthew 12:34,  O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

Matthew 12:36, "But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken."

James 1:26,  Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.  

James 3:5b-6a  "Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among parts of the body

Proverbs 15:1 A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."

Psalm 141:3  Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.

1 Peter 3:10-11,For, “Whoever would love life and see good days must keep their tongue from evil and
 their lips from deceitful speech. They must turn from evil and do good;  they must seek peace and pursue it.

Colossians 4:6, "Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.