“Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14, ESV)
Words have power. It was with words that God created the universe. Be careful with the words you use. They have the power to build up and to tear down. I recently came across three questions to ask before you speak. These questions were:
- Is it true?
- Is it kind?
- Is it necessary?
Is it true?
Truth is more necessary than ever. There is so much information available to us. We process more information in a day than people would process in an entire lifetime 100 years ago. Much of this information is accurate. But much of this information is inaccurate.
It has always been easy to spread a lie, but it is easier than ever today. It is more important that as people of the “Truth” that we be discerning of the truth and speak the truth. Every time you misrepresent the truth, your reputation becomes damaged and people will take you less seriously when you actually have something important to share. Think about the story of the boy who cried wolf.
Is it kind?
The second filter is “kind.” Kindness is about speaking the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Sometimes you need to say something. There is a right way and a wrong way to say it.
You can say something with understanding and empathy. You can also say the same thing disregard and a lack of compassion.
Are your words intended to build up or tear down? Look to build up rather than tear down. Criticism is less necessary than we might believe, which leads to the next question.
Is it necessary?
The best course of action is oftentimes to say nothing at all. Some things are best left unsaid. There is a time to speak and a time to keep silent (see Ecclesiastes 3:7). This is not to avoid confrontation when it is necessary. Rather it is about considering what is beneficial and what is not beneficial.
Reflection
- What other filters would you suggest?
- When was a time that you regretted words you spoke? Do you need to seek forgiveness from the person(s) those were directed towards?
Prayer
Thank you Lord for your Word. Thank you for giving me the ability to speak and to communicate with others. May the mediations of my heart and the words of my lips always be well pleasing to you. Help me to use wisdom when I speak. That I would use words that build up rather than tear down. Amen.
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