Today’s devotion was written by Crystal Storms
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues” (Proverbs 10:19 NIV).
I did it again. I’d said “yes” without counting the cost. Ugh! Why didn’t I stop talking when I had the chance?
As I stood there listening to her story, I wanted to help. So after she finished sharing, I started asking questions to see how we could solve her problem together. And when she asked for my help, I said “yes” without thinking it through.
She needed a listening ear, and I gave her a helping hand.
I wish I could say this was a one-time experience where I said “yes” to something without considering what I would now need to say “no” to. But it wasn’t.
When my words are many, my thoughts are few. I begin speaking without thinking.
I think that’s one reason Solomon advises holding our tongues. Waiting to pray before I answer would have given me time to respond with godly wisdom.
And listening without speaking would have allowed my friend to feel heard. She wasn’t trying to add to my already full plate. She just needed someone to talk to.
Solomon knew the temptations we would face when our words are many. Another version of our key verse puts it this way, “A person who talks too much gets into trouble. A wise person learns to be quiet” (ERV).
Let’s be wise women of virtue whose words are few, being quick to listen and slow to speak. Because pausing before we answer will give us time to wait on the Holy Spirit’s answer.– Tweet this!
Let’s pray:
Lord, I often forget to hold my tongue and need Your help to stay quiet. Help me to honor You with my words. And when I’m tempted to give an answer before seeking You, I ask You to pause me and help me to wait on You.
In Jesus’ precious Name, Amen.
Meet Crystal Storms
Crystal’s heart is to come alongside and encourage women on the journey of intentionally pursuing God’s heart so we can pour out His love. She loves coffee, chocolate, tea, good books, and most of all Jesus. Married to her best friend for over 21 years, Tim and Crystal live in Florida with their sweet dog Minnie.
Connect with Crystal at Intentionally Pursuing.
Thank you for following along today. I hope you were encouraged and inspired by Crystal’s words. ~Kelly
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Hmmm, yes, I have often committed to something without praying about it…then I wonder how I get so burned out! Maybe, as sisters in Christ, we can also remind each other to pray before saying ‘yes’ to our request. Thanks for linking up with Grace and Truth.
Wonderful idea Aimee! I love that!
Love this! So often we want to help, but need to know it’s God’s will not our own! Thanks Crystal and Beth!
Thanks for stopping by Jill!
Beautiful post as always. Love your heart Crystal!
Thank you for stopping by Beth!
Thank you, Beth. : )
I think we all come about this lesson the hard way. I like your admonition to just listen. For whatever reason, God wired me with compassion, so it took me a while to learn that what I said “yes” to that wasn’t God’s yes, ended up costing my family. It definitely makes you more aware of the actual power we hold through prayer. I can pray for anyone at anytime, and that is the best help we can all give. God will be sure to let us know if we need to do more. Lovely, Crystal. Thanks for sharing, Kelly…your site is beautiful. ((hug))
Good morning! Thank you, I’m glad you like the website. You are so right, sometimes the best way to help is to pray. Thanks for stopping by!
Brenda, you are so right that it is often our families that pay the price when we are too quick with out yes answers. Pray is a beautiful gift we can give, trusting God’s Spirit will prompt us. Sweet blessings to you, friend. : )