OOPS

"He who guards his mouth and his tongue, guards his soul from trouble."

- Proverbs 21:23 / NASV

Have you ever said something and as soon as it has come out of your mouth you know you said something really stupid?  I have - more than once.  Why do we do that?  What is it that causes a rational, reasonably kind person to come out with something dumb and hurtful?  I believe it comes from wanting to talk more than wanting to say something worthwhile.

                One of the disciplines of a successful person is that they think before they talk.  I say discipline because it has to be a deliberate action, it will not happen on its own.  We must control our tongue or it will control us.  We see it all the time in people from political leaders to the guy next door.  When we do not think we say things that we will regret in the end.

                I believe that God has given us control over our tongue and the things we say.  The trick is to use that control.  There are a few simple things you can do to not be the one to say the wrong thing:

1)  Think before you talk.

2)  Do not talk too much.

3)  Always ask yourself what is the kindest and must helpful thing you can say.

4)  As you mother told you: when you have nothing good to say, don't say anything.

                Always remember that you matter to the world.  God placed you here to make a difference and that difference is good.  You possess the qualities of a real success-minded person, which are to: Be your best.  Love God.  Have good manners. Discover the unknown.  Change the world.

John Patrick Hickey is an author, speaker, and Life Coach. To read more from John Patrick Hickey or to get his books, training and book him to speak to your church, business or group, visit our website at http://www.growthcenter.net or www.johnpatrickhickey.com.   © 2014 John Patrick Hickey