How you communicate is terribly important. The saying goes: “Out of the fullness of the heart, the mouth speaks.” That’s why it’s particularly important that you “count your words.” How you speak nowadays aren’t only the words that you say, but also the words you write. I’m so fed up and at times despondent when I see how people betray their hearts through the way they communicate on social media. How can one reveal oneself so blatantly? Measure yourself against the following criteria:
You regularly speak extremely negatively.
You draw a line through hope with your way of speaking and writing.
You’re keen to criticize others.
You like talking down to others.
You enjoy writing and speaking in a negative and pessimistic way.
Your speech is dirtied (certainly not decorated) with unsavory words.
How are you doing thus far? Here are a few more:
You’re eager to fight with people.
You’re keen to bully others with your words.
You’re keen to spread suspicion with what you say and write.
Proverbs 12 verse 18 says it so beautifully:
The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing – NIV
Do you speak with a knife as tongue and write with one in your hand? Or are you wise? Do you bring healing, hope and mercy wherever you go? What are you known for, and what will people remember about you?
Paul helps us wonderfully in Ephesians 4 verse 29:
Do not let unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen – NIV
Those who listen to you must be uplifted – especially in a time like this. Everyone is tense, unsure, easily irritated and frustrated. Therefore, listen to Proverbs and Paul. Live it in every conversation – verbal or written.
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