Let's talk VALUE

Here we are at our 11th installment of this victorious living journey. You know... What I write about is geared to motivate and encourage singles, for sure. But really, it's for EVERYONE. All of us have our strengths and giftings; many of which are birthed out of our life experiences. Somewhere along the line, I got shot with the arrow of "victorious living". And if you have been reading earlier blogs, you know that my journey has been very "interesting," but a blessing all the same. If you ask me, I'll talk about it, but I waste very little time with unsolicited chatter.

Sure I love telling jokes and chiming in on the topic of the moment, but one thing I've learned is that "talkers" like myself, get the best value out of intentional listening. What we have to say may be very important, but if talking becomes more important to you than listening, it's just as if you are pouring precious stones off a cliff. Moments to share our "wisdom" avail themselves, but we should seek out the opportunities to listen. Listening to learn, not to prove wrong or right.

Sometimes talking can be a diversionary tactic. Have you ever met someone who seems to never stop talking? Sometimes talking constantly about superficial things or other people's problems, makes it less likely that people will really notice our pain or short comings. Not realizing that if we stop talking and begin to listen more, that healing comes from what is poured into to us. We can select what is poured into us by the way. Our movie, music , motivational media preferences and even conversations we participate in are our choice and can really make a difference in the value added to our lives, each day.

What are you listening to? What are you talking about? Is there value? Do you select your words so that even in correction, they are adding value? Or... Are you hoping the phone will ring with more idle gossip, so you don't have to focus on the areas of your life that need growth and healing? One serious sign of growth for a talker is when the phone rings less and less. Many of us are talkers because God needs our words and personalities to promote growth and make a positive change and difference in the lives of others. Start interrupting the stream of negative talk and valuless conversations -- either by turning the conversation positive, if you can or totally changing the conversation. Be the light. Add value.

Sometimes even saying nothing in a converation can end it quickly -- especially if you are a key contributor. But it is most important that your words become valuable to you and that as you begin to make "speaking life" a necessity in your life, more LIFE will be spoken into you. "Death and life are in the power of the tongue." Proverbs 18:21. And Jesus said "Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks." Matthew 12:34b This explains why and how we can be so badly wounded with words.

The words you speak (write) can be a weapon, but can also be rewarding, encouraging, healing, comforting and finally they can ADD VALUE. Guard your words and choose them carefully, but remember to LISTEN.