“It is easier not to speak a word at all than not to speak more words than we should.”
Thomas a Kempis

“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great exploits.”
James 3:5a

Ouch!

“…not to speak more words than we should.”

I had the privilege of working with someone who seemed to have the perfect ability to know when to speak and when to be silent. Her smile seemed to be an extension of her spirit, and grace and peace were given in full measure to those with whom she interacted. She quickly became my hero – a person who I wanted to be like. She reflected Jesus in how she lived and loved. I wanted (and still desire) to do the same.

Her ability to manage her mouth greatly affected her ability to minister grace and peace. She was often quiet, but willing to speak when she had something of value to say. Had she had an unkind word to say about someone not present, those in the room would wonder if those same words might be said about them. But she didn’t. We never feared she would speak unkindly about us, because she never spoke unkindly to or about others.

She spoke words of encouragement – not false compliments. What a difference! She seemed to be able to see what God was doing in us, and encouraged us lovingly to continue following His call.

If I sent this to her (and who knows, maybe she is receiving this) she would not recognize that it was written with her in mind. Her humility was a part of her ability to speak when necessary that which was necessary.

May I follow her example as she followed the example of Jesus.

Lord, thank You for the reminder that often my opinions and ideas need not be spoken. May my mouth be used by You to encourage and love others, to minister Your grace and peace. May I honestly pray with the psalmist, “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to You, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”