There is a lot of wisdom in today’s selection of Proverbs. I always look forward to my quiet time and what God’s word will speak to my heart each day. It’s different for each of us depending on what is happening in each of our lives. What one spoke to you? Please share in the comments.
I am reflecting on verse 19 and my mind is just swirling with ideas. “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut.” The introverts in the crowd have to be applauding Solomon here. Yes, at last, even a Biblical high five for being quiet. I, for one, am on the cusp between being an introvert and extrovert. I am equally balanced with traits in each camp.
I tend to talk a lot. More than I should on occasion. This verse really spoke to me about those latter times. Have I sinned because of having too many words? Probably. Do I know when it’s best to be quiet? Not always.
I think of the “look” I get from my husband, David, when I ramble on beyond what is necessary. Especially if I answer a simple yes or no question with many sentences of explanation. Am I sinning? I have certainly not entertained my audience. I have likely caused them to at least stop listening if not become annoyed with me. If I had only kept my mouth shut or known better to not talk too much.
I think, too, of gossip. That is most certainly a sin. Too much talk about another person’s business is not good at all, but we’ve all done it. It happens all the time. Do we even realize when it’s happening? We should have a Proverbs 10:19 alarm in our brains that tells us to STOP!
If you are a talker like me, do you need to be more mindful of how many words you are using? Is it time to sit back and just listen? There is so much we can learn if we just listen. It’s an art. Listening isn’t always easy. Especially for us talkers who want to inject our own words all the time.
As much as this verse talks of talking, I think we should also read between the lines and realize that listening is just as important, if not more so. People like to be heard. I need to practice being a better listener. There is so much we can learn about others when we listen.
Listening for God is the ultimate. Have you ever heard the voice of God speak to you (audible or otherwise)? Are you listening? Open up those lines of communication with God. It will change your life.
Let’s pray … Father, forgive me for running my mouth more than I should. Help me to be a better listener, to you and to others. May I be more mindful of this lesson to keep me on track. I certainly don’t want to sin by talking too much. Help me to control my tongue. May the words of my mouth be pleasing and uplifting. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
