T.H.I.N.K.

I really can't remember if I have written a post about this acrostic before... And I didn't bother to check, because it is worth repeating... It was shared with me by a very wise friend who's Mom (a judge) kept it on her desk...

Before you say (or in this day and age, write) anything... 

take a minute to T.H.I. N.K.  

Is what you have to say True? If it isn't... don't say it!  

Wherefore putting away lying, 
speak every man truth with his neighbour: 
for we are members one of another. 

Ephesians 4:25

Is what you have to say Helpful? It's so easy to tell people things we think they need to hear, but it seems like the things that they really do need to hear, are the ones that we don't want to say. Make sure that what you are saying is helpful... not hurtful.

Is what you have to say Important? A great quote or two to go with this one...

 

Maybe God gave us two ears and only one mouth
because He wanted us to listen twice as much as we talk.

Sometimes the most helpful thing we can say is nothing at all.

But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

Matthew 12:36

Is what you have to say Necessary? If you have asked yourself whether or not the things you want to say are true, helpful and important, take a minute to think about whether or not is is necessary. Often, by saying nothing at all, God will resolve the problem is we only give Him the chance.

Is what you have to say Kind? No matter how true, helpful, important and necessary something may be, it can always be said in two different ways... the harsh, hurtful way, or the kind, caring way. God tells us to be tenderhearted... It's okay to have your heart broken... especially for someone else's sake. God specializes in healing broken hearts.

And be ye kind one to another, 
tenderhearted, forgiving one another, 
even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.

Ephesians 4:32