'How' as Important as 'What'

Quick! -- Who was your favorite teacher?

Whoever you thought of, there was a reason. For some folks the reason may have something to do with their teacher's unique ability to make the learning process enjoyable. For many, their favorite teacher not only did a good job teaching the subject matter,  she/he really cared about students. So, it was just as much about the 'way' in which things were taught.

     The tongue of the wise makes knowledge acceptable, 
     But the mouth of fools spouts folly.
     --Proverbs 15:2

The Hebrew term for ‘acceptable’ carries the idea of ‘good’ or ‘pleasant.’ So, a wise person will say things that are beneficial (i.e. good content). In addition, the ‘way’ things are said will be ‘pleasant’ to the listener.

As always, the fool stands opposite the wise. The words of the fool are described as ‘folly.’ In this proverb the 'fool' is literally someone who is 'weak-minded.'

The ‘fool’ offers little in the way of content. In addition, he lacks the skill (wisdom) to communicate in a ‘pleasant’ way so that the things said are easily accepted.


The ‘way’ we communicate is of vital importance. Just because we have good content , does not mean that we have communicated it well. We must give careful thought to the ‘way’ in which we communicate. So, assuming that the content of our message is good, our goal should be to communicate in a 'way' that makes our words pleasant and easy to hear.

Do you think this advice would help...

• In our marriages?
• With our children?
• Among fellow Christians?
• In the workplace?

(Just where would this advice NOT be applicable?)

Pleasant communication will not change the content of your message, but poorly chosen words, manners, or attitudes can completely destroy your message. Speak with wisdom; don't play the fool.

Think before you speak. Be thoughtful as you speak.
Be wise.