“Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.”
Ever since Kia and Hyundai opened plants in our area the Korean community has grown large. Their culture has been a very positive addition. I have learned a lot from them. One old Korean proverb says, “Even a fish wouldn’t get in trouble if he kept his mouth shut”. That is simple practical counsel. Solomon would agree. How often do we say something and moments later realize it would have been best left unsaid? I certainly have. I try now to count to 3, say whatever I’m about to say in my mind first and listen to it there. It is amazing how often I remain quiet after hearing myself in my mind and realizing just how hurtful or unhelpful that comment would be. It may even be true but in reality very unnecessary other than making me look right or helping me feel better. Neither of those are good reasons to speak it. Silence or even a smile con be much more of a blessing. I’ve also discovered my own stress level is reduced by not creating conflict or tension through my words. I know, pretty obvious. Solomon goes beyond just the simple results of staying quiet, he declares it is as profound as preserving life verse facing ruin. I recently visited with a young man wrestling with suicidal temptations because his classmates mocked things about both his physical appearance and social interactions. They scarred his spirit to the point he was contemplating getting rid of the pain they caused by ending his life. Today measure your comments carefully and run them through God’s heart before you speak them. #BeTheEdge
“Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.” Ephesians 4:29 NIV
