Wise Words

A wise person gets known for insight; gracious words add to one’s reputation. . .They make a lot of sense, these wise folks; whenever they speak their reputation increases.

 Proverbs 16:21, 23 The Message

Every time I talk with my friend Gloria I say: “Why can’t I say wise things like Gloria?” Gloria is not a real talker, but when she speaks it is certainly worth listening to.

Many times I am guilty of being in such a rush to have myself heard that I speak first, then think. Often times I have unfortunate results. How many times have I said, “Why did I make that statement?”

Gloria has great insight. She makes good sense. She speaks with wisdom that she has gained from studying God’s Word. People listen when Gloria speaks. And yes, as today’s Scripture says, her reputation increases.

We should all seek to encourage those who cross our paths. We should measure our words carefully. We should speak wisely, not impulsively. Our words should bring healing and comfort to a world which needs both.

Wise words are pleasing to God and helpful to others. Our words and actions should both demonstrate what it means to be a faithful follower of Jesus Christ.

Recently I did a study in God’s Word about communicating with others. Here are some questions I am going to ask myself before I jump too quickly into conversations:

            1. Are my words positive or negative?

            2. Am I listening to what others say?

            3. Do I talk too much?

            4. Am I meddling or gossiping?

            5. Is my timing right?

            6. Am I speaking encouragingly?

            7. Do I have lying lips?

            8. Am I bragging or nagging?

            9. Do I admit wrongs?

         10. Do I sometimes need to bridle my tongue?

Maybe you will want to think on these statements so that your words will be more like God desires them to be.

Georgia Andrus