The Power of T.H.I.N.K
T.H.I.N.K.
The things we T.H.I.N.K. about are evident by the words that come out of our mouth and the way we act. Common sense tells us that, and so does the Bible. Philippians 4:8 says that we are to think on these things: whatever is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, commendable, excellent, and worthy of praise.
My sister-in-law had an acronym in front of her 5th-grade classroom at Cluster Springs Elementary School in our county. It spelled the word THINK. She instructed her students to consider the THINK model before speaking. We incorporated this into our family and I’ve used it with dozens of kids since.
“When you want to say something,” I told a kid living in my house the other day, “if you THINK first, you’ll find that you are more pleasant and agreeable to be around.” He knew exactly what I was talking about.
The meaning of T.H.I.N.K.
Before you speak, ask yourself:
- Is this True? Does what you want to say carry truth or is it forged with a lie?
- Is this Helpful? Does the information I want to hand out provide help in a situation, or does it obscure truth and growth? Does it build someone up or tear them down?
- Is this Important? Is this information important? Is what I have to say so important that it should not be left unsaid?
- Is it Necessary? Is what I want to say really necessary? Will it add to peace and harmony or cause pain and division? Is it necessary for the good of the group or the person?
- Is it Kind? Are the words I want to say kind? Are there other words that portray more care?
At the end of the day
When all is said and done, forcing ourselves to THINK before we speak will change the way we live and relate to others. Use this THINK model or follow the words in Philippians 4:8 and you’ll find there is more peace and harmony in your home, workplace, and relationships. You’ll slip up here and there in battle skirmishes, but this focus will help you win the war.
Photo credit: by Gerd Altmann via Pixabay.com
