Watch That Tone

Tone of voice makes a big difference in communication. Honest words spoken with he wrong tones are self-defeating. “Speak the truth in love.” (Eph 4:15)

Some tones are clearly unacceptable. Some are destructive to good relationships and even misrepresent and dishonor God. Consider the following wrongful tones… Condescending, Bossy, Angry, Snobby, Frustrated, Impatient, Defensive, Moody, Distant, Disrespectful, Sarcastic, Whining and so on.

One of the best ways to change our speech patterns is to replace inappropriate ways of talking with godly speech. An obvious example would be to replace gossip or slander with positive words about others.

Words of thanks and kind words of encouragement are excellent alternatives to many wrongful ways of speaking. (Eph 4:32; 5:18-21) Praise directed to God (Hebrews 13:15) is a potent form of speech that can set a clear tone for the rest of life!