Title
Hushed Words Verses Rushed Words
Scripture
To everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven
(Ecclesiastes 3:1&7b)
Devotional
There are numerous verses of scripture that reaffirm Solomon's wisdom: "Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; when he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive."[4] "Let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak."[5] "In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise."[6] These along with many others confirm the wisdom of knowing when to keep silent and when to speak. There are a few simple rules that more than often work with regard to knowing when to speak and when to keep silent: Do not speak when angry, tired, frustrated, not sure or too sure. Speak when honestly asked a question, when your word encourage, edify and glorify God. If what you are about to say cannot be said by faith, don't. The apostle Peter sums it up so very well, "If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God."[7]