Many Wrong Words

When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Proverbs 10:19

 

It is hard to be wrong. Most of us prefer to think, “Right again,” while patting our own backs.

 

Wrong words are easy to come by:

• To a friend already in a tough spot
• To a grandchild that needs a reminder, not a scolding
• To a friend whose situation we do not know enough about to have an opinion.

A lack of humility (which sounds better than the presence of pride) can bring on a set of problems that are difficult to get out of. Too many words can be dangerous (Proverbs 10:19).

Job’s friends, though intending to help, added to his grief with their “wise” counsel. (Guilty.) After listening to them, Job responds (Job 12). He reminds them that though he is a laughingstock to his friends, he knows that what has happened to him has come from God (Job 12:9).

Job demonstrates pure faith in God’s sovereignty.

Because of this faith, he says he will take up the argument with God rather than his friends (Job 13:1-4).

His next statement to them is, “Oh that you would keep silent, and it would be your wisdom.” It would sting to hear that but sometimes I know (from experience) that it would be better to remain silent (Proverbs 17:27).

The Bible does not prohibit us from correcting or rebuking those who are in sin. But, like Job’s friends, it doesn’t mean that every time we talk to someone (even our own children) that we should assume something that has happened to them is a direct result of their sin. Some stuff that happens to us is just what’s “common to man” (1 Corinthians 10:13).

The Bible says that it is prudent, wise, and judicious to restrain our lips. In humility, we exercise self-control and speak with forethought. When we do, we are more likely to use gracious words to correct, rather than haughty words that drive those we are speaking to away.

Most often, we are not intentional in using our words to “tear others down.” It is only with self-control and forethought that we can speak to “build others up.” This may be as simple as our tone of voice or choice of words.

Look what God says about words: “Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body (Proverbs 16:24).” Proverbs 12:18 says that rash words are like “sword thrusts.”

With prayer and a desire to please God rather than ourselves, we can use gracious words to correct and rebuke when necessary. Sometimes though, as with Job’s friends, silence may be better than correction.

Prayers for wisdom to see the difference may be the first step to better relationships.

Oh Lord, show us when to speak and when to remain silent.

 

 

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