In Luke 6:31 Jesus says, “Do unto others as you would have them to unto you.” As we think about using our words, what does that look like here at SCPS? T.H.I.N.K. will help us learn how to use our words to treat others in a way that will glorify God!
T:
To say something that is true means to only say what you know to be true or to have really happened. It is not what you wished would have happened or what someone else said may have happened.
Ephesians 4:25 “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
H:
To say something that is helpful means to only say what is kind, supportive, beneficial, and useful. How do your words benefit all who hear them? Would you say those words to your teacher, to your parents, or to someone at your church? We need to remember that others are listening when we speak to our friends and we know God is always listening!
Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any 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.”
I:
To say something that is inspiring means to say words that make others feel good about themselves or positive words. Inspiring words build up a person’s spirit. A good friend uses inspiring words.
Proverbs 16:24 “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
N:
Necessary means essential or must be done. Are you saying things that are really necessary? It is wise to choose your words carefully and only say what is essential.
Proverbs 10:19 says, “The one who talks too much will for sure sin, but he who is careful what he says is wise.”
K:
Kind. The dictionary defines kindness as being friendly, generous, and considerate. Do you say words that demonstrate kindness? Considerate words take into account the feelings of others.
Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God forgave you.”
Now we have looked at each letter of “T.H.I.N.K.”. We all want people to say kind things to us! So let’s choose to “think” and use kind words with each other. You could give someone a compliment- “I really liked the way you read that story.” Or “Way to go on getting nominated for the Barnabas Award!” Or don’t say anything at all.
Remember to be sure you are using words that are true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind. Before you say something, check to see if your words meet each of these criteria! If not, you should guard your words! You will glorify God by “think”ing before you speak!
T:
To say something that is true means to only say what you know to be true or to have really happened. It is not what you wished would have happened or what someone else said may have happened.
Ephesians 4:25 “Therefore each of you must put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor, for we are all members of one body.”
H:
To say something that is helpful means to only say what is kind, supportive, beneficial, and useful. How do your words benefit all who hear them? Would you say those words to your teacher, to your parents, or to someone at your church? We need to remember that others are listening when we speak to our friends and we know God is always listening!
Ephesians 4:29 “Do not let any 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.”
I:
To say something that is inspiring means to say words that make others feel good about themselves or positive words. Inspiring words build up a person’s spirit. A good friend uses inspiring words.
Proverbs 16:24 “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.”
N:
Necessary means essential or must be done. Are you saying things that are really necessary? It is wise to choose your words carefully and only say what is essential.
Proverbs 10:19 says, “The one who talks too much will for sure sin, but he who is careful what he says is wise.”
K:
Kind. The dictionary defines kindness as being friendly, generous, and considerate. Do you say words that demonstrate kindness? Considerate words take into account the feelings of others.
Ephesians 4:32 says, “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God forgave you.”
Now we have looked at each letter of “T.H.I.N.K.”. We all want people to say kind things to us! So let’s choose to “think” and use kind words with each other. You could give someone a compliment- “I really liked the way you read that story.” Or “Way to go on getting nominated for the Barnabas Award!” Or don’t say anything at all.
Remember to be sure you are using words that are true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind. Before you say something, check to see if your words meet each of these criteria! If not, you should guard your words! You will glorify God by “think”ing before you speak!