The more talk, the less truth;
the wise measure their words.
MATTHEW 5:37 (MSG)
You don’t make your words true by embellishing them with religious lace. In making your speech sound more religious, it becomes less true. Just say ‘yes’ and ‘no.’ When you manipulate words to get your own way, you go wrong.
SUMMARY SENTENCE
More words don't equal more truth.
DAILY FODDER
One of my mentors, John Notehelfer, suggested the acronym T – H – I – N - K, as a way to decide what needs to be said and what should be left unsaid. "Is it true? Is it helpful? Does it inspire? Is it necessary? Am I kind about it?"
PRAYER
Lord God, your words are always true and appropriate for the moment. Mine on the other hand, are too full of me. Give me the wisdom to THINK and keep my mouth shut. I want to become a person of few, but helpful life-giving words. Amen.
THE LORD’S PRAYER (ABP)
Our Father in Heaven,
we hold your name in the highest regard.
Please come and establish your reign here on earth
so that everything that happens here will align
with what is happening in heaven.
Give us enough food for today.
Forgive us our wrongdoing,
and we’ll forgive those who have wronged us.
Shield us from the trials and temptations that come our way.
Lastly, we pray that you will protect us from all forms of evil. Amen.
