Take a breath

There has been a series of commercials that have aired in recent years regarding taking a pause to think before speaking or acting. I am not sure who it was that put these out, but I wanted to thank that person from the bottom of my heart. Many times in life, by speaking before taking a second to think through what was passing my lips, I have caused frustration, anger, hurt feelings and distrust in others. It sounds like a simple thing and it really is to simply take a deep breath before responding to whatever situation is in front of you.

Does it really cost you anything to take one good second to let what is about to pass your lips run through the filter of your mind? That one second delay may help save a relationship or keep open a door that otherwise might close for good. 

Why is that important? Well, if you are a Christian and trying to follow the teachings of Jesus, we are advised to speak the truth in love. Yes we can be truthful with people, but by controlling the tone and choice of words, we can get across a point without making the other person so angry that any chance of them hearing from you about the good news of who Jesus is and what He has done for them goes right out of  the window.

Truth is truth, but can be delivered with a hammer blow or with a handshake. Before you speak, breathe, and maybe even utter a short prayer regarding what you are about to say. You may be thankful for that extra second someday.