“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29

Leaders must be wise and restrained in the words they use. A leader is in a consequential position to either built up or tear down.

You cannot let stress, anger and frustration cause your words to be destructive. Benjamin Franklin once said; "Remember not only to say the right thing in the right place, but far more difficult still, to leave unsaid the wrong thing at the tempting moment.”

Here are a few Biblical guidelines when it comes to leading and building with words.

✓ Be edifying. “The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life.”’Proverbs 10:11

A good leader seeks to help others achieve their best. Condescending, shaming, being cynical etc. are not appropriate ways to communicate.

Correcting unacceptable performance and behavior is necessary, but should always be done in a Christlike manner.

✓ Be patient. “Through patience a ruler can be persuaded, and a gentle tongue can break a bone.” Proverbs 25:15

Everyone has different gifts, talents, aptitude, and learning styles. It takes patience to work with people, and to learn what motivates and causes them to rise to the challenge. Using encouraging words can foster a sense of security and a desire to do better.

✓ Be clear. “Like apples of gold in settings of silver is a ruling rightly given.” Proverbs 25:11

It is important for a leader to be wise and an assertive communicator. Those who work with you must have a clear understanding of expectations, goals, timelines, policy, procedure, etc. Do not assume others can read your mind. Asking questions can help determine if you are being understood. Also, allowing dialogue when leading others helps develop a sense of team, ownership, mutual respect, creativity, and unity.

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