“Intelligent people think before they speak; what they say is then more persuasive” (Proverbs 16:23, GNT).

Nowadays, we often can call this proverb the “ready, fire, aim" mentality. If we blurt out the first thing on our minds, many mistakes and offenses will be made, and reputations will be diminished. But if we carefully think through the matter before speaking, our words will tend to be more measured and thus more appreciated. 

This crucial pause allows us to R-E-S-T - Review, Empathize, Soften, and Tailor our response. Many other Proverbs can be applied if we stop to think first and review the situation, such as, "A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" or "Do not answer a fool according to his folly, lest you also be like him" (Proverbs 15:1 and Proverbs 26:4, NKJV).

Empathizing, trying to understand what someone else feels, is an important element of being a good listener and in the course of time, producing a wise reply. Empathy helps us to soften and tailor our response, and be gracious toward the hasty words of others. 

How are you doing at thinking before you speak? What can you improve on?