What to Say and What Not to Say

There are awkward moments in life when the mouth goes too far.  There are also awkward moments when the mouth does not go far enough.  On the one hand, I have thought back at a comment I made and say to myself, “I wish I hadn’t said that.”  On the other hand, there are times when I have thought back on a wonderful opportunity to say something and said nothing.  In those circumstances, I say just the opposite, “I wish I had said something.”  Or, similarly, I might later think of the right response and say, “I wish I had thought to say that earlier.”  I do not believe I am the only one recognizing that what to say and what not to say is an issue.  Truth be told, it is not so much a matter of mouth as it is of coordinating mouth, brain, boldness and restraint. 

 

In one letter, Romans, the apostle Paul mentioned the tension.  Romans 10:14-15 is a reminder that true blessing comes from those who say something- the right thing, about the biggest thing- about Jesus.  Blessed are the feet of those who bring good news.  Romans 14:22 is a reminder that about secondary things in life, it is better to keep matters to yourself and God.  Romans 10 is about salvation.  Romans 14 is about opinion and conviction on personal practice.  Blessed are the feet of those who bring peace and mutual edification (Romans 14:19). 

 

May we never become silent on saying what matters most.  May we never speak that which divides and wounds.  And, may we always be smart enough to distinguish between the two, bold enough to act upon our knowledge and disciplined enough to lessen the times we later say, “I wish I had said . . .”, or “I wish I had not said . . . .”

Comments

[Brenda]

Dear Friend,
This stands as a truth that finds the mark in several ways, and comes at a wonderful juncture for the New Year. God send His Benefits your way!....

[JJ]

I recall the Hoopfest Swearing and Kicking the ball a block away as a pivotal moment when I also had to ask "what's in my heart that I would do that?" I'm glad I asked that question-I think I'm also a HOLIST, although I'm A MAJOR WORK IN PROGRESS.