Love “does not boast, it is not proud.” (1 Corinthians 14:4). ‘Boasting’ and ‘being proud’ are similar and interrelated. ‘Boasting’ is an activity. It refers to what we say. ‘Being proud’ is a description of an attitude and disposition of mind.

What we say may be an expression of our inner feelings. Our words may reveal what we really think.

On the other hand what we say can have an effect on our manner of thinking. Feelings that we express in words will possibly become more prominent in our approach towards life and other people.

At times we may say things somewhat lightly. Only afterwards we may become more fully aware of the meaning and impact of our words.

Our words will to some extent determine what others think about us and how they interact with us. The way others treat us then will quite possibly have an effect on our own feelings and attitudes.

As you read through the bible you will often be challenged to think about your own words. God would have us learn certain things about our manner of speaking and interacting with others.

You also can easily discover verses of scripture referring to our attitudes of heart. God wants us to reconsider our general outlook and our approach to life.

In Romans 12:2 the apostle Paul instructs the Roman believers: “Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” What we think has an effect on who we really are. Any change in our thought patterns will lead to some transformation of our personality.