Sometimes I wonder if the Hoover Dam was meant for my mouth.
There is a torrent of words that flow from the River Tom. Some refresh, while others ruin. Excessive opinions, nasty barbs, frivolous comments, senseless criticisms, childish complaints, and unnecessary chatter must all be held in the reservoir of restraint.
Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Proverbs 17:27-28 ESV
It seems that God is constantly telling me, "Just shut your mouth!" I guess that's because it is so easy to let the river flow . . .
- The cascade of complaint that results from long lines, unkind remarks, or unnoticed work.
- The damp dousing of a critical spirit.
- The outpouring of pride that can come with a new learning or achievement.
- The burst of bad news that moves like tsunami swell.
I think Douglas Adams had it right, "Nothing travels faster than light, with the possible exception of bad news, which follows its own rules.
Since my words can so easily rain on someone's parade or flood their souls with grief, God says to practice keeping quiet.
- Keeping quiet shows knowledge -- the true knowledge that God can fight your battles better than you can.
- Keeping quiet shows understanding -- the quiet understanding that God is more than able to promote your cause.
- Keeping quiet brings wisdom -- the wisdom conferred on those with tight lips.
"Lord, help me restrain my words."