When it comes to the punchline of a good joke or in exercising a quick wit providing a clever response to something said, timing is key. However, when it comes to verbal responses to some of life’s varied situations, considering timing is no joke when we understand the tongue can quickly get us into trouble.
As Solomon noted there is a season and time for every matter under heaven (Ecclesiastes 3:1), in that list we read. . .
“(7) a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;” (Ecclesiastes 3:7 ESV)
Considering this, someone has said, “Every thought that comes into your mind does not need to come out of your mouth.” (original source unknown)
When we consider how quickly the mind works, we need to guard against being too quick in our speech (i.e. James 1:19) lest it get us into trouble and leave us with regret for having spoken too quickly. Taking a moment to consider appropriateness, timing, and potential impact will help us understand when to speak the thought and when it might be best to keep it to ourselves.
In his letter to Christians at Ephesus, Paul offered three key elements to consider regarding our speech. We read. . .
“(29) Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” (Ephesians 4:29 ESV)
May we think about our thoughts before they are allowed to leave our lips!
Have a great day GUARDING THE PATHWAY FROM MIND TO MOUTH!
Carl
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