Proverbs 15:1 says, “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”  

We’ve all been told to “think before you speak”.  There is a reason that for, if we take a moment to think about what we are about to say before we just blurt out what we are thinking, we may be better able to handle the response from the other person.   Here is a great way to remember the power of words and to think about what you are going to say by using the letters in the word, THINK. 

Start with the T, before you speak, think, is it true? 

“The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.”  

Proverbs 12:22

Next  H, is it helpful? 

“Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.” 

Philippians 2:4

Then I, is it inspiring? 

“Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” 

1 Thessalonians 5:11

Then N, is it necessary? 

“Teach me knowledge and good judgement.” 

Psalm 119:66

And finally K, is it kind?  

“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” 

Ephesians 4:32

Please take the time to talk to your children about what they are saying either to you, a friend, or to a teacher and ask them the 5 THINK questions. Is what you are saying;  true, helpful, inspiring, necessary, and kind?

Words that are true and kind have a way of softening any situation.  

“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” 

Mother Teresa

For additional resources and inspirations go to the resource page.