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Developing Positive Speech Patterns
Developing Positive Speech Patterns
When I was in Toastmasters Club, we learned to be more aware of our unconscious habits of using speech fillers like “uh”, “like”, “you know,” etc. By eliminating these meaningless expressions, we could avoid annoying the listener and improve our communication skills as well.
How much thought have we given to our speech habits? There is nothing wrong per se with predictable speech patterns—as long as what we say pleases God and helps others.
As Paul says, “Let no unwholesome word proceed from your mouth, but only such a word as is good for edification according to the need of the moment, so that it will give grace to those who hear” (Eph. 4:29 NASB). Here Paul steers us away from the wrong kind of speech and aims us toward words that bless others.
If it’s good to learn not to say, “uh”, “like” or “you know”, how far more valuable it is to replace worldly conversation with words that show we are God’s children!
Positive speech patterns include: 1) expressing appreciation, 2) encouraging others, and 3) conveying a cheerful, upbeat attitude in what we say.
Negative speech patterns include, among other things: 1) profanity, 2) gossip, and 3) complaining.
Some Christians would never lie, use God’s name in vain, or tell dirty jokes. But perhaps they have fallen into a “Poor me!” mindset accompanied by a corresponding conversation style.
Let’s examine ourselves: Does what I say hinder or help? Encourage or discourage? Do others enjoy being around me because I am uplifting, or do they dread my company because I dwell on the negative?
It’s not easy to be objective in evaluating our own speech patterns. Self-examination may not be pleasant, but if we really want our words to fit Ephesians 4:29 (cited above), we may need to make a major course correction. We’ll be glad we did—and so will those who hear us!
Ode to a Grouch
Grumble, mutter, whine, complain.
Air your grievance; don't refrain.
"Woe is me!"--yes, sing that song.
Sing it loud and sing it long.
And to make it even worse,
Sing the same song, second verse.
Let them know that you're upset.
Just make sure they don't forget.
Keep on griping--don't be shy!
Bellyache until you die.
But after all is done and said,
Will they miss you when you're dead?
─David Gibson
