Think Before You Speak

Scripture:
The mind of the righteous person thinks before answering,
but the mouth of the wicked blurts out evil things.
Proverbs 15:28

Observation: This straightforward wisdom - think before you speak - is one we all know. It is good to think in your mind about what you should say before answering. However, there is a 'good vs. evil' context to this proverb that is new. I righteous person does indeed think before answering. However, when someone just blurts out something, it is associated with evil. They are likely to say an 'evil thing' and themselves are called wicked.

The leap of logic here is in the difference between the behavior of good and wicked people. A wicked person is quick to respond because they are quick to anger and aggressive in nature. They look to either attack or quickly justify and defend. On the other hand, a good person carefully considers their words. They are patient by nature - one of the fruits of the spirit - and are therefore likely to think through their response to any situation. They also seek to be kind even in poor circumstances or conflict.

Application: I have seen in myself lately the fact that I am quick to respond, and not taking the time to process situations. I often produce conflict this way, which is not my intent. I must be more considered in my responses and words. Careful consideration is not just wise, but righteous.

This does, of course, come from a spirit of kindness, goodness, and patience. When I am calm in spirit, I will be slow to anger, and thus considered in my responses. I would do well personally, professionally, and spiritually to slow my responses and find not only the "right" response, but the well-timed and uplifting response.

Prayer: My great Lord and God, may I have patience this day in all matters. Patience is the well from which kindness may be drawn, especially in matters of the words the come from my mouth. I seek to show patience and practice righteousness through my thoughtful words. Thank you for your practical education and guidance in all matters. Amen.