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Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear (Ephesians 4:29, ESV).
TGIF, or “Thank God It’s Friday,” sums up the weekend philosophy of many.
Weekends are different: no school and hopefully no overtime at work. We think about the weekend all week, with plans for sports, family, parties, Buzz Brainard’s Happy Hour in Nashville (not an OG advisable), or doing nothing at all.
The weekend has a different vibe than the work week.
Perhaps we should do the same with our conversations as they can be more relaxed, often happening naturally as part of a weekend getaway. How satisfying an open-ended conversation lasting hours with a friend.
Just as we plan weekend events, we should understand and anticipate weekend conversations. Below are four points needed for great conversations starting this Friday.
- The 30-second rule
John Maxwell writes, “Within the first 30 seconds of any conversation, do or say something to encourage the person you’re talking with.” Don’t begin with a negative comment about the weather, politics, or the other person’s dirty shoes. As you approach, allow the Spirit to generate a positive comment.
- Don’t use AI (Artificial Intelligence). Use SI (Spirit Inspired) words.
Pray while talking, “Spirit, what can I say to encourage this person?” If you have planned gatherings, visualize people expected and ask the Spirit in your morning devotions for a Spirit-inspired comment that’s ready to share.
- Grace Talk
The Apostle Paul ends Ephesians 4:29 with, “That it [your conversation] may give grace to those who hear.” Ask these questions during any conversation: “Will this comment make the other person feel better? Will they believe they’ve been elevated and received grace by talking with me?”
- One Another
The New Testament uses the phrase “one another” about 50 times.
It forms a road map for great weekend conversations. My favorite “one another” verses are: encourage one another (1 Thessalonians 5:11); bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2); teach one another (Colossians 3:16); and pray for one another (James 5:16).
Encouraging words, instruction, or sharing what’s been learned from God, learning how to help (bear) one another, and asking for specific ways to pray for one another yield the best conversations.
With satisfying conversations, TGIF turns from booze to actually thanking God for a great weekend!