Mean what you say

'…Let your 'Yes' be yes and your 'No,' no…' James 5:12 NIVNIV

Saying what you mean is just the beginning. Meaning what you say is the next step. Don't say one thing, then walk away and do the opposite. When you say 'that's the last time', make sure it is! Start with the small things (like how much time you'll spend on the games console or starting your assignment before the last minute), and you may well find it filters into some of the bigger decisions and actions too. If you're not planning on doing something, don't say you will. And stick to your guns too; if you tell your friend you're not going to let him borrow your bus pass anymore, don't let him. Saying 'Oh ok, just this once', makes him think it's ok to keep coming back and before you know it he'll be walking all over you again. Have you ever heard a mum screaming at a kid, 'If you don't stop that right now you'll have to go to your room'? The kid doesn't stop, so the mum says, 'This is your last warning'. Still the kid doesn't stop—but still the mum doesn't take action. The 'final warnings' just keep on coming. What does the kid do? Whatever they want to, of course. Why? Because empty words have no meaning. If you want people to listen to what you say, respect you, and value your words—then make sure you place value on them too, and follow through on what you say.

Friday, 26 February 2010
http://www.word4u2day.com.au/201002252062/Mean-what-you-say.html