May 31 (Proverbs 29:11)

A fool gives full vent to his spirit, but a wise man quietly holds it back.  (ESV)

Facebook.  Twitter.  Instagram.  All social media proves the truth of this proverb.  Now think about the break room at work, the hallways of the local high school, and the Starbucks where you meet a friend.  Is this proverb right, or is it right?

It has always been tempting for people to say whatever is on their minds the moment it lights up their brains, and today it is easier than ever to share that thought with the world.  It is natural.  Everyone is talking about something, and we want to be part of the conversation.

Yet consider this.  Does it really need to be said?  I know, I know.  You thought it, so it must be wonderful, but before you hit enter ask yourself if it really, truly needs to be said.  Does it honor God or make you look cool?  Does it help people see the truth of the matter or pour gasoline on a raging fire?  Is anyone the better for your sharing it?

Father, it is so easy for me to want to comment on everything going on around me.  There is much that I know is displeasing to You.  Help me to know when to speak and when to be silent.  If You want me to speak about something, give me the words that reflect Your love and Your will.  May I never speak rashly my own opinion just so I can be somebody in the eyes of the world.  Amen.

Copyright © 2015 by Steven R. Perkins

May 10 (Proverbs 18:2)

A fool takes no pleasure in understanding, in expressing his opinion.  (ESV)

Social media is incontrovertible proof that this verse is true.  We all have opinions, of course, but not every thought that passes through our minds needs to be expressed.  Yes, we need to share the gospel.  Yes, we need to stand for what is right and against what is wrong.  Yet as Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, there is a time for every purpose under heaven.

So how do you know whether or not to comment on that post on Facebook?  How do you know if you should speak that delicious thought with your colleagues?  The answer is simple.  Don’t do it.  No matter what, don’t do it until you have paused for a moment and listened to the guiding of the Holy Spirit.  As Jesus promised, He will lead you into wisdom.

And that brings us to the first part of this verse.  The truly wise person seeks understanding, and this more often comes from questions and listening than from trumpeting our own opinions.

Lord, show me when to speak and when to be silent.  When I speak, may it be what you want me to say, whether a question or a statement, rather than my own opinion.  Wisdom and understanding are what I truly seek, not popularity or fame.  In Jesus’s name, amen.

Copyright © 2015 by Steven R. Perkins