By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
Proverbs 17:27-28 "A man of knowledge uses words with restraint, and a man of understanding is even-tempered. Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue." - NIV
We respond to situations of life by the words we speak and the actions we take. The wise man notes that knowledge guides our choice of words. It’s our understanding that enables control of temper so that we don’t just burst out and do more harm. It takes discernment and wisdom to sometimes keep silent instead of speak and make things worse.
We need this wisdom everyday in life because of the many things that come our way as we interact with people and circumstances of life. Some are false accusations that push us to the limits. It is one of the devil’s schemes to provoke us to anger so as to speak what he can use as a loophole against us. The Pharisees and teachers of the law provoked Jesus to speak in attempt to trap Him using His own words. But Jesus kept quiet or wisely chose His words in reply.
May God give us knowledge, wisdom, understanding and discernment at all times to know when and what to speak, how to say it, and when to be silent. May we be quick to hear and slow to speak in anger. Such an approach will save us alot more trouble, give us peace and disarm the enemy. If our words will add no value or cause more trouble, we rather be silent.
Mark 12:13 "Later they sent some of the Pharisees and Herodians to Jesus to catch him in his words…"
James 1:19-20 "My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires."
Shalom children of God.