First impressions are important. If you do not try hard to make a good impression on someone, especially for the first meeting, you need to change your ways. As you meet someone new, that first meeting is crucial. Your mannerisms and what you say make a big impression upon them. You know this, but it is worth repeating – it is hard to change a first impression.
First impressions are made when you meet someone for the first time, and also when someone is introduced as a speaker. A preacher whose first language was not English was introduced as a model preacher. Not knowing what “model” meant, he looked it up in a dictionary and found it means “a small imitation of the real thing.” Also, the man who introduced him said the speaker was “a warm person.” He didn’t know what “warm” means, so he looked it up in the dictionary and found it means “not so hot.” Ha! Ha! That introduction, more than likely, was something that speaker would remember for a long time.
When it comes to your speaking, the speech you utter, should be positive and encouraging. How can you do that? That is accomplished by making sure the words you use agree with Scripture. The psalmist knew all too well the importance of using the right words, when speaking to others. Moved by the Holy Spirit he said, “My tongue shall speak of Your word. For all your commandments are righteousness” (Psalm 119:172; NKJV). Yes, it is important to speak words agreeing with Scripture? Why? Just as the verse says, then your words will be words of righteousness.
Are first impressions important? Definitely? So, keep in mind, that as you meet someone for the first time, to make a good impression. You can’t make a second good impression!
