Proverbs 25:11-The right word spoken at the right time is as beautiful as gold apples in a silver bowl. Words are powerful. But who hasn't said the wrong thing at the wrong time or in the wrong way?
Is there a way to run our words through some type of grid before we actually say them?
Let's use the following acrostic.
True - Is it true? Not everything that is true needs to be said. I mean if someone asks you, "Does this dress make me look fat?" you may be wise not to answer with a quick 'yes.' Just saying.
Helpful - Is it helpful? Now to be honest sometimes the truth is not helpful. It is already well established and will only cause defensiveness.
Important - Is it important? Sometimes our motives are questionable. Perhaps you are on the way to church and you mention to your wife that some of the bills were paid late. This past Sunday we talked about money at New Hope, so the topic of bills is important. But not on the way to church. Not very helpful at that time. And not important at that particular time either.
Necessary - If during the course of a conversation between several people, let's say the topic is marital satisfaction. For someone to mention a troubled marriage that all were familiar with would be totally unnecessary.
Kind - Let's take the last illustration a step further. To name drop another couple would not be kind.
If some were to take the advice, "If you cannot say anything nice don't say anything at all," you would think they were preparing for a major singing performance...they would go silent for days!
The counsel to 'think before you speak' can be helpful if you take the time to T.H.I.N.K.
