You Will be Quoted!
With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water. James 3:9-12 NIV
Before you assumed the role of leader you freely shared your thoughts and opinions, usually without significant consequences. But now that you are leading others, your words carry much more weight because the authority of your position stands behind your words. Now your words really matter to others.
Someone put it this way. “As a leader you speak at a volume of ‘2’ but you are heard at a volume of ‘9’!” Therefore, you must think before you speak! And choose carefully what you want to have public opinions about. You will be quoted!
Because of the gravity with which others hear a leader’s words, you can hurt someone with a flippant remark or bad use of humor. A leader’s sarcasm can wound others, especially those more sensitive. They may laugh, but inwardly they are hurting.
Knowing that your words matter can be used to advantage also. All team members want to be well thought of by their leader. Words of affirmation from a leader are also heard loudly and can go a long way in helping individual or team morale. But if a leader is always pointing out short-comings or mistakes, team members will be hesitant to take risks or disclose the true nature of a situation for fear of criticism or rebuke. Never confuse flattery with affirmation. Flattery is insincere or excessive praise, often used to manipulate others. “You’re the best!” “You’re so smart!” Often these characteristics are things the person is born with. But words of affirmation are compliments about something the person developed or did. “Your wholehearted attitude was exemplary.” “Your attention to detail really helped us.” Be sure to affirm, not flatter!
Developing Kingdom Leaders - Tom Yeakley 