Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person. Colossians 4:6 (ESV)
So, whatever you wish that others would do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 (ESV)
I read an article that mentioned the acronym T.H.I.N.K. and I wanted to share it here, going over the meaning of each letter.
T is for Thoughtful…
In our dealings with others, whether inside our family circle or not, are we acting from a place of thoughtfulness in our daily interactions? Do we think first, and consider how our words and/or actions, either big or small, will impact another? Let us develop a mindset of being considerate and thoughtful about our actions, as we go about our daily lives.
H is for Honesty…
Are we always operating from a mindset of honesty in our daily dealings with others, various projects, work, or school? Looking into the core of who we are, do we go through our lives with honesty being high on our list of character traits?
I is for Interesting…
A lot of people, places, and things can be considered interesting. This word can be used to describe someone or something nice and exciting or, it could be used to describe just the opposite. So, in looking at this word within the acronym, we always need to look at it in context with the other descriptors: thoughtful, honest, necessary & kind. So, combined with the other descriptions, the word interesting should be thought of in a positive and uplifting light.
N is for Necessary…
Many times, we all will have situations thrown at us that may not be kind or considerate. And our first reaction may be to retaliate in like manner or even worse. However, when I think of the word necessary in this acronym, I think in terms of, is it worth it? Do I need to go “there” with this person or situation? And even if I did, would it change the outcome? If we think things through and apply this word to our thoughts, we will be able to save ourselves and others, a lot of pain and grief, by not adding to the situation.
K is for Kind…
That word speaks for itself. When we consider interactions with others and our responses to what we will say or do in various situations, we always must remind ourselves to be kind. And I’m not saying to be kind when someone else is kind. That’s easy, we all can do that. The Bible speaks of it beginning in Matthew 5:47 where it states:
“For if you love those who love you, what reward do you have? Do not even the tax collectors do the same? And if you greet only your brothers, what more are you doing than others?”
So, when it says to be kind in this acronym, it suggests being kind always, when it’s easy and when it’s hard. Let’s look to have kindness be a part of our core matrix. Therefore, when we encounter situations as well as individuals, who are not being kind, we will still respond with kindness and consideration.
As we go through life, may we incorporate this acronym internally. May we work on it being a part of our psyche and a true part of who we are. So, when we get into a situation where we’re being tested, this acronym will be right there in the forefront of our minds. It will remind us to stop, take a moment, and then respond. If we all did this, what a different world this would be.
So, going forward in life let us have this thought before we respond: is it thoughtful, is it honest, is it interesting, is it necessary, and is it kind. Let us remember to T.H.I.N.K always before we act and speak.
Blessings,
Angélique
To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com