We’ve all had that moment when we’ve been in a group and wanted to look really smart and wise. And so, we decided to show just how smart and wise we are by opening our mouths and speaking. But, to our great dismay, we instead looked really dumb and foolish. That’s the chance we take when we open our mouths.

Today’s word of wisdom speaks to this sort of scenario. Proverbs 17:28, “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.” We need to be wise about when to speak and how to speak. You see, as long as the fool remains quiet, his foolishness is hidden. Even a fool can look wise by simply keeping his mouth closed. How much more so for the actually wise person.

We need to grow in our ability to know when to speak and how to speak. We need to consider what we are about to say. Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it helpful? We need to think through how we are going to say it. Can I say this winsomely? We need to assess the purpose of our words. Why am I saying this? And we need to gauge the timing. Is now the right time to speak? Are people ready to hear this?

Beloved, there is a time to speak. But, there’s also a time not to speak. And, even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise. So, try zipping that lip and be wise!

Change begins in you!