Do we think before we speak?
Proverbs 15:28--Reading this proverb reminded me of water. Our words are like water. They can refresh, or drown. They can transport us, or suck us down into the depths. They can be alive with the wisdom of GOD, or like rapids that rush us past GOD's truth, and we miss it altogether.
As I think about this, I'm reminded of why it is important to think before we speak. Have you ever had the compulsion to let words spurt out and then watch those words overpower the recipients?
I've been both the recipient and the one sending a jet stream into someone's face.
Think about this. Someone asks us for advice. We see the dangers ahead. How do we tell them they are on the path to danger? That decisions they're contemplating could have serious repercussions for their future?
Now, ask yourself: "How would I want to be told?" Probably in a way that will reach us. But, do we always know what will truly reach us?
When we think before we speak, we allow the Holy Spirit to instruct us how to tailor our message to fit the receiver. Some souls can handle a rebuke--a strong stream. Others cannot, and require a loving correction that's like a glass of cool water. Others probably fall somewhere in between.
Sometimes, I can feel that back pressure, that compulsion to shout out my words. Or, worse, because I'm not wise enough to step back and think, I can't handle the pressure and don't say anything at all. Instead, I hold it all in. It just simmers and boils until I explode on someone else. Yeah. Not proud of that.
The key is to remember that if GOD places us in a situation to speak His word--to give His answer or advice--it is an honor. And a responsibility. Our responsibility is to not just know what He wants us to say, but to say it in the way He wants.
Sometimes it's a bucket of water to the face--figuratively, by the way. Sometimes it's a sit down and sip the water situation. And, sometimes it's somewhere in between. Whatever He shows us--do it to the best of our ability. Then, step back and let Him take it from there.
May we think before we respond, my friends.
Proverbs 15:28--A righteous heart thinks before answering, but a wicked mouth blurts out evil things. Tree of Life Bible Society Tree of Life Version - TLV #tlvbible #tlvproverbs
[WATCH Tree of Life Bible Society's CEO, Daniah Greenberg and me, Terri Gillespie, Author dig a little deeper with this proverb. Check us out at Tree of Life Bible Society, Monday through Friday, LIVE at 8:30am EST. Watch previous episodes there as well. Stay wise, my friends!]
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