There are times when talking is futile: When a person has preconceived ideas. When a person has already made up their minds. When another is always right. When a conversation has changed to an argument. When logic and reason is impossible. When anger rules the emotions. When others don't like you. Each of these are times when it is best to shut one's mouth.
If a discussion is necessary, another time would be best. If a point is true, it will withstand the assaults of others. If a person's mind is made up, there's little chance of changing it and it's best to leave everything in the hands of God.
"But I, like a deaf man, hear not; and I am like a dumb man who opens not his mouth. Yes, I have become like a man who hears not, in whose mouth are not arguments or replies. For in You, O Lord, do I hope; You will answer, O Lord my God." Psalm 38:13-15.
It's possible that even I can't hear for the debates in my own mind. It's possible that the people with whom I want to communicate can't hear me for the same reason. It's times we are at a complete loss for words. In these times, I must step back. Be still. Pray and wait for God's direction. And many times it is He who will answer. Not I. selahv
[SelahV Today, hariette petersen, 2008]
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Sometimes, even knowing that doesn't stop me from telling 'em. :)
Luke
Posted by: Luke | June 23, 2009 at 01:47 PM
I have found the best time to shut my mouth is 1) when I need to listen to God first and 2) when I don't have anything good to say at the moment. Good post selahv.
Posted by: bill (cycleguy) | June 23, 2009 at 03:08 PM
Luke, I know. But I'm working really hard at not responding just to respond. I find most of my comments need to be weighed in light of an audience I do not know is there, rather than simply the person before me who may be talking to me (or not talking to me). I think in blogland...so much is said that could be left unsaid and much of what is said can do more harm than good. At times it just stirs a pot that doesn't need stirring. But at times, the pot is about to boil over, and it doesn't hurt to stick our spoon in the foam to try and simmer things down a bit...til the heat is turned off. ya know? selahV
Posted by: selahV | June 23, 2009 at 03:15 PM
Bill, Good thoughts. Mama use to say, "if ya don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all." Wow, we'd have an awful quiet world if we followed mama's advice, huh?
I'm finding I just need to keep most thoughts to myself. Most folks aren't interested anyway. And there is always a few who will twist, color or slap down anything that is said, anyway--simply because I say it. In those cases, I tend to simply remain silent. It's best all round. selahV
Posted by: selahV | June 23, 2009 at 03:20 PM