“Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you yourself will be just like him.”
One of the clearest signs of a person on their way to maturity is learning when to stay silent. One of the clearest signs that they have reached maturity is when they do. A sign that they have a long way to go is when they say something and immediately realize they should have stayed silent. Solomon, James, Paul, and even Jesus model and remind us of this truth. When Jesus stood before His accusers, He said very little. At certain points, He said absolutely nothing. Some of those He did not respond to foolishly believed that His ultimate fate was in their hands. It never was. We see many foolish people who believe they control our destiny at times. Political leaders who think the world or country is theirs to direct are foolish. Bosses who believe their employees’ ultimate situation is in their hands are foolish. There is no doubt that others’ decisions can impact a person’s life situation. However, as Christ followers, we know that nothing enters our lives without first passing through the hands of the Almighty. It may not always feel that way, but Jesus modeled it as the truth. They thought they had settled His outcome when they killed Him on a cross. They were wrong. Three days later, He showed them as He rose and assumed His place at His Father’s right hand, above all rule and authority. There He sits, in ultimate control of our story. They misread His silence. Today, stay quiet and find peace in that truth. #BeTheEdge
“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:14 NIV
