Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – August 29, 2015
When words are many, sin is not absent, but he who holds his tongue is wise. Proverbs 10:19
Tempered talk is evidence of wise conversation. It is when our words are many that we run the risk of soliciting sin. Increased words increase the probability of improper speech. For example, respectful conversation does not repeat the same words and phrases in a confined period of time. This impatient cadence frustrates.
Perhaps a look of misunderstanding requires questions for clarification or definition for comprehension. Proud conversationalists can highjack a listener’s understanding with a hoard of words without meaning. If your goal is to communicate, then take the time to listen to the needs of your audience. People who feel cared for and understood have a keener sense of hearing and understanding.
“Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue” (Proverbs 17:28).
Wise people weigh their words before they speak. They allow their minds to catch up with their hearts. Furthermore, in the face of inappropriate behavior, emotions sometimes need to express themselves. Let the other person know if you feel mistreated or misinformed. Concealed anger leads to living a lie (see Proverbs 10:18), but tempered talk is truthful and to the point.
Lastly, you reserve your words out of respect for the other person. If you do all the talking, you are the center of attention. It is condescending conversation when the other individual does not feel important enough to speak up. So honor others by speaking less, listening more intently to how you can love them. Wisdom can be found in the words of each person you meet. Therefore, intentionally talk less and be wise.
“My dear brothers, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19).
Whom do I need to listen to more and talk less?
Related Readings: Job 2:3; Amos 5:13; Titus 1:10; James 3:2
Post/Tweet this today: Honor others by speaking less and listening more intently to how you can love them. #temperedtalk #wisdomhunters
Additional Resource: 7 minute music video- Natalie Grant: Shout to the Lord
Today’s reading is from our newly released 90 day devotional book Two Minutes in the Bible Through Proverbs: Order Boyd’s newest book.
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This particular piece was quite meaningful to me because as a child I often spoke to much in haste & still struggle as an adult to curb my tongue. This helped me focus on important reasons to speak less, and also gave me a standard to help decide. There are times when one feels it is important to speak out against wrongdoing. But other times when a person is just kidding themselves & speaking strongly simply because of stubborn strong feelings more to do with personality than right or wrong.
Dear Sue,
Thank you for taking the time to reach out to us after reading “Tempered Talk”. I think you spoke for many in the Wisdom Hunter’s family (including myself!!)when you stated that this devotional was meaningful to you and that you have struggled in the past (and still do at times) with “curbing your tongue”. You wisely summed up why many of us speak too quickly with your last statement. “But other times when a person is kidding themselves and speaking too strongly simply because of stubborn strong feelings more to do with personality than right or wrong.” Sue, you are so right. Thank you for putting into words this reminder that sometimes, we just need to listen.
In the devotional, Boyd stated, “Wise people weigh their words before they speak. They allow their minds to catch up with their hearts.” Gracious, what a clear and beneficial suggestion that can only produce more meaningful conversation.
“Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.” Colossians 4:6
We are thankful for you, Sue, and look forward to hearing from you again sometime. Blessings to you and yours.
Believing and trusting~
Gwynne
“Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18