Today’s Devotion
Topic: Don’t Talk Too Much!
Text: Ecclesiastics 6: 11 & Proverbs 10: 19
“The more the words, the less the meaning, and how does that profit anyone?” “Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut”. Amen
Beloved this has little to do with personality or temperament; neither is it about being introverted or extroverted. Having so much to say at a time will even lead the “quietest” fellow in trouble.
Some of us naturally like to be heard, others are really calm. The common element running through, however, is that all men see the opportunity to speak or share their thoughts as the platform to demonstrate their worth, substance and value.
They may debate, argue, elaborate, compare, compromise, expantiate, exaggerate and even contradict themselves, all in an attempt to prove to their listeners that they are who they claim to be, and that what they say is authentic. They forget, however, that each word spoken makes the real person they are on the inside bare to the listener. It also exposes their innermost thoughts and perceptions. It is not long and an impression is built around them that is difficult to erase.
We will all agree with Solomon in Proverbs 10: 19 that the more we speak, the higher the probability to sin, because we must try harder than usual to make our words convincing and true. To achieve this, lies, flattery, backbiting, gossip, insults and exaggerations must be employed. Also, “the more the words, the less the meaning”, and of what benefit is that to both the speaker and listener?
Therefore “my dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1: 19). Remember that it is true “we all stumble in many ways. However, If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he’s a perfect man; able to keep his whole body in check.” (James 3: 2)
Like bits in the mouth of horses and rudder in ships, so is the tongue in the mouth of a believer. If not tamed, it will move the whole body into a mess. Begin to pray now. Refuse to have many words just to please your listeners. When you must speak, think carefully and say the most appropriate that edifies and affirms righteousness. Why should you always be in trouble because of what you say?
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