Whether we speak words with our mouths or use our fingers to type them on social media, we seem to be people of many words. God has help for us as we take an inventory of the words that come out of our hearts and are expressed in these ways. In Proverbs, a book of wisdom, we are given several comparisons of good and bad words. This should help us sort out what words to keep and what words to learn to eliminate.
Many of us have been guilty of hiding resentment and anger and hatred behind lying words, not just during active addiction but even today in recovery when our responses cannot be blamed on the use of drugs or alcohol. God reminds us that this is a foolish way to live. God promises that if we speak the truth in love, peace and understanding will follow. It may not come in an instant, but it will surely come when words spoken in truth and love are given a chance.
If you fail to speak the truth, trouble will follow. If you speak openly, peace will come. Good people say things that help others, but the wicked die from a lack of understanding. (Proverbs 10:10, 21 ERV)
Sometimes we just use too many words. When we are feeling nervous or when we have allowed someone else’s opinion to trigger strong emotions within us, we tend to use unkind words to express what we are feeling. In some situations, we might do well to just walk away. Often it is wise to just be quiet.
A person who talks too much gets into trouble. A wise person learns to be quiet. Wise people are quiet and learn new things, but fools talk and bring trouble on themselves. (Proverbs 10:19, 14 ERV)
Prayer: Gracious God, Help me to choose my words wisely and to be quick to listen and learn and slow to speak. Especially in tense situations, help me to speak in ways that bring peace and understanding or remain quiet. Amen
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