Stop And Think

Before we speak or act out we need to stop and think. Is it possible we misunderstand or misjudge a situation?

James 1: 19 or Jacob 1:19 depending on your Bible. says,

“Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger.”

Don’t jump to conclusions there may be a perfectly good explanation for what you just saw. My father always told me, not to assume anything, because you will make an ass-u-me. You will make an ass out of you and me.

Proverbs 29:20 tells us there is more hope for a fool than for someone who speaks without thinking.

It’s always better to stop and think. What will your words and actions accomplish? Will your words hurt or will they help? Will you build others up or tear them down?

Ephesians 4:29, tells us,

“Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but only what is good for building others up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear.”

Before we speak or act, we need to stop and think. Are we rushing to say or do something we might deeply regret later? Are we focused on the good or the bad?

Colossians 4:6 tells us to let our speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt so that we will know how to respond to each person.

Before we think stop and think, is it wise to speak right now, or is it wiser to be quiet? There is a time to be silent and a time to speak.

Another thing my father used to say is, “If you can’t say anything nice don’t say anything at all. We really need to take this advice today.

I have a few three questions I keep in the back of my mind before speaking

1. What do I want them to know?

2. What do I want them to feel?

3. What do I want them to do?

Questions I ask myself before I speak,

1. Is it true? Do not speak based on assumptions, speak only what you know is true.

2. Is it kind?

3. Is it necessary?

There’s a golden rule that says, “Treat others how you want to be treated.” think about others the way you want to be thought of. Feel about others the way you want others to feel about you. Speak to others the way you want to be spoken to.

Always ask God for help. God is eager to help us speak wisely.