things I need to work on.

communication self-evaluation:
are you producing fruits of Godly talk? [Gal. 5:23-27]

1. does your talk with others lead to biblical problem-solving?

2. does your talk have a "stand together" or a "me against him/her/them posture?

3. do your words encourage others to be open and honest about their thoughts and feelings?

4. are you approachable and teachable or defensive and self-protective when talking with others?

5. is your communication healthy in the principal relationships in your life? [parent-child, husband-wife, family, siblings, employer-employee, friendships, body of Christ]

6. does your talk encourage personal spiritual growth in those around you?

7. do you talk with others to develop relationships with them, or do you only talk to solve problems during times of trouble?

8. do you speak humble and honest words of confession when you sin and words of sincere forgiveness when others sin against you?

9. do your words reflect a willingness to serve others or a demand that they serve you?

10. as you face the struggles of talk, do you do so with a recognition of the gospel- God's forgiveness, His enabling grace, and the satisfying work of the Holy Spirit?

"War of Words" - Paul David Tripp

This is definitely a struggle I have always dealt with. what is the reason behind what I say? the mouth speaks the overflow of the heart [Matt 12:34] if what you say is encouraging and beneficial to the glory of God, what does that say about your heart? If your speeches are prideful and you say things to get attention and approval, you may have some heart issues to deal with [I know I do]. I have to be so careful when I speak, or write, to make sure my words are genuine. Do I want people to truly be encouraged by what I say, or do I just want to be noticed? There is so much we need to think about before we speak. "War of Words" by PDT is all about this struggle and the power of our words. What they were created for, what a gift they are, and how to use them for the glory of God. love it.

[THANKS FOR THE GIFT STEPHANIE HUFSTEDLER !!] :)