Good morning. I would think that all of us would like to at least be thought of as wise. There is a misconception among us, far more pronounced with some (myself for example) than others, that wisdom can be equated with having the correct answer. For some of us, that means that we are quick to share our opinion, and that we feel obligated to defend that opinion. There may be times when that idea is true and correct, but there are far more times when it would be better to learn the value of silence. Consider this from Proverbs 17:28
Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise;
when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.
Yes, the gender identification is male, but don’t go too far with that idea. The male gender is the standard in ancient language reference. When I read this proverb, my mind goes to a saying that is so old I remember my grandmother using it: “It is often better to be silent and thought a fool than to speak up and remove all doubt.”
Clearly, there is truth related in the proverb mentioned, as well as in the advice of the old saying. But it can be very difficult to accept and apply such a truth. That is especially true when our minds are working hard to convince us to speak up and share our thoughts.
I read about an interview of President Calvin Coolidge by a newspaper reporter. President Coolidge was known as “silent Cal” because he was very careful with his words and often would sit quietly and listen without speaking up. This is rare behavior, especially for a politician! The reporter: “Good afternoon Mr. President. As we begin, do you wish to say anything about the threat of war in Europe?” Coolidge: “No.” Reporter: “How about the strike being threatened by workers in clothing factories?” Coolidge: “No.” Reporter: “About the League of Nations?” Coolidge: “No.” Reporter: “How about farm production problems due to the summer’s draught?” Coolidge: “No.” Reporter: “I see. Well then, good day to you Mr. President.” Coolidge: “Don’t quote me.”
God’s Word actually has several reminders for us to watch carefully what we say, even to the point where we remain silent. We read in Psalm 141:3
Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth;
keep watch over the door of my lips!
The reason I chose this verse is because it points out the need for divine help. I can’t speak for you, but I definitely require divine assistance when it comes to knowing when to remain silent.
Perhaps One of the truths that should be considered is that silence is not the avoidance of communication, nor is it a lack of communication. Silence is a powerful form of communication in its own right. The key is to know when silence is “golden”, and when silence is intended to be its own form of attack.
The thought for this day is to realize the importance, and the great value, of silence. When we accept that truth, the next step is to remember that we need help from the Lord to know when to “hold our tongue” and to realize what we are communicating by doing so.
May your speech be especially wise today, even when it is absent!
Vern