When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is prudent. —Proverbs 10:19
How often do we engage in conversations we don’t need to be part of? We inject ourselves into a discussion, reach for our phone, or ask deeper questions than we ought to. Cutting back on the quantity of our words lessens the opportunity for and temptation to slander. I’m not saying we need to go stoically silent or feel guilty for being friendly. But there is wisdom in Proverbs 10:19.
For several years I had a walking partner. Over that time, we walked some 1,500 miles together. And while we enjoyed the chance to chat, even to pray and quote Scripture and encourage one another, we also had to guard against idle talk and sharing gossip.
It’s so easy. It comes so naturally. It breeds in constant conversation and can quickly grow into slander.
Of course, we ought to speak more words that bless, encourage, and strengthen others. But if there’s nothing needful to say at the moment— nothing kind, encouraging, or helpful—fewer words may be just what is needed.
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Adorned: Living Out the Beauty of the Gospel Together © 2017 Nancy DeMoss Wolgemuth
Scripture taken from The CSB
Make it Personal
How can you guard against idle talk or gossip with others? Ask the Lord to show you when talking less would be the best choice.