Talking Net’

We all need to learn how to establish and maintain boundaries with our words. Proverbs 10:19 states, “When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise” (NIV). In other words, people who talk a lot will often find themselves in trouble.

Because our words carry so much power, you and I need to learn to say only what needs to be said. I like to call it “talking net.” When we get paid, most of us get a net paycheck, everything that needs to be taken out has already been removed from the gross.

You can apply this same principle to your speech.

You need to remove certain types of words from your speech before they ever come out of your mouth. These include negative statements, gossip, insincere flattery, sarcasm and coarse jesting, or being funny in a rude way.

Instead, you can choose to speak well of others, finding and focusing on good qualities in them. They will be appreciative and encouraged, and you won’t find yourself in trouble!