I seem to have a rather unfortunate superpower. Any time my family convinces me to see a movie in the theater, I have an uncanny ability to sit right next to the one person in the audience who decides to talk or use their cell phone during the film. It's inevitable and inescapable! And every time I'm reminded just how "golden" silence is.
"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: ... a time to keep silence, and a time to speak" (Eccl. 3:1, 7).
The Bible talks a lot about the unwieldy power and impact of our tongues (James 3:5-8). Controlling our words can be like trying to tame a wild animal. In so many situations, the best choice is to stay quiet. Let's consider three times when it's better to "zip it."
When You're Angry
"A man of quick temper acts foolishly ..." (Prov. 14:17).
Maybe you want to "straighten someone out," "give someone a piece of your mind," or even "tell someone off." But these are the moments where it's best to stay silent. Cool off, listen carefully, and speak cautiously, especially when tempers begin to flair (James 1:19-20).
When You're Uninformed
"If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame. ... The one who states his case first seems right, until the other comes and examines him" (Prov. 18:13, 17).
Our legal system stands on the belief that someone is innocent until proven guilty. But too often we speak without knowing the facts. Then gossip, backbiting, and whispering spread like wildfire, destroying people's lives. But we can stop it at the source, by keeping quiet until we're properly informed.
When it Hurts Others
"A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends" (Prov. 16:28).
Sure, sometimes, we have challenging things that need to be said. But when hurtful words aren't necessary, let's be careful to keep it to ourselves. And on the receiving end, try not to take it too seriously, since you've probably been guilty of inflicting similar wounds on others (Eccl. 7:21-22).
Silence is golden, but there could be a deeper issue. The root of the problem may be in your heart, as Jesus warned, "... For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks" (Matt. 12:34).
Let's choose our words thoughtfully. And remember that we will all "give account for every careless word" (Matt. 12:36) before God on the day of judgment.
