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THINK before you speak or write
T – Is it true? We can cultivate an inner innocence and let our speech be both sincere and reasonable. We can choose to resist the temptation to exaggerate (claiming to know more than we can know) or to lie (repeating false claims others have made).
H – Is it helpful? We can come alongside others in ways that are less combative and more helpful by choosing to be peaceable, gentle, and willing to yield.
I – Is it inspiring? Think about what inspires you. I feel certain that all humans are inspired by that which is good, true, or beautiful in some way. There is nothing at all inspiring about bitter envy or selfish ambition. James urges us to rid ourselves of these things and to bridle our tongues.
N – Is it necessary? We can choose to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger. Let us consider whether the words we want to speak or write are compatible with obeying Jesus’ great commandment to love God, ourselves, and others with all we’ve got.
K – Is it kind? Jesus calls us to follow him on the way of love. Love is always kind. Legalistic religion focuses on rules, checklists, separation, exclusion, power, and control. Jesus’ ministry was, is, and always will be defined by radical inclusion, amazing grace, and the tearing down of dividing walls. Human institutions draw lines; Jesus erases them.