Guard My Lips

Scripture

Take control of what I say, O Lordand guard my lips.

~Psalm 141:3, NLT

Quote

The words of the tongue should have three gatekeepers: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?

~Arabian Proverb

I have had a long-standing admiration for quiet and reserved people. Our youngest grandchild Chloe listens a lot and says very little. Obviously she didn’t take after her mother or granddaddy. Those who are quiet stay out of a lot of trouble that the rest of us get into. I know that I have done things that hurt others but more often than not, it has been my big mouth that has hurt others. Strange as it may seem, I don’t really like opinionated people which means I don’t like myself. I don’t really mind a person being honest about their feelings as long as they use discretion. I have learned the hard way {trial and error} that things are seldom what they appear to be and that when we jump to conclusions, we usually land on a lie.

The bottom line: especially for preachers and counselors is–we never have all the facts. People tend to tell us what they want us to know but rarely do people tell the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. When people come to see me, they are usually looking for affirmation not counsel. I am slow to listen and quick to give them advice. They don’t really want my opinion; they want me to tell them that what they are doing is acceptable. One of the signs that a person might be telling the truth is that they incriminate themselves, and that is a rarity.

There have been a lot of times I wished I could take something back, but words spoken cannot be retrieved. I guess that is why I admire and respect quiet people; they are comfortable keeping their thoughts to themselves. One of the most impressive things about Jesus’ behavior during his trial and crucifixion was His quietness; He said very little. He didn’t say much to Pilot, or the High Priest and He said nothing at all to Herod. He said nothing and yet His innocence was screaming. It takes a great person to remain silent when they know that they are not guilty. I guess it was a part of His assuming our guilt–in order to do it, He had to remain quiet. Wow, what a Savior.

In my devotional time, the thing I enjoy the most is His speaking to me. He speaks and the sound of His voice is so sweet the birds hush their singing. While Martha was fuming in the kitchen, Mary was having the time of her life in the den…sitting at His feet and listening to every word. Wow, what a privilege, what a joy divine! I love to hear Jesus speak!

Extra

Lunch with the three D-Seavers went well. Danny and David so most of the talking: it is hard for me or Doug to get a word in sideways. His brothers are members of the College Park Church of God and covid has done a number on their attendance.

We are enjoying this wonderful weather and we will probably get a few nice days along the way from this point on. The cold nights don’t bother me when we have the warm days to follow.

Have a great day and thanks for reading the blog.

 

 

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *