When there are many words, wrongdoing is unavoidable,
But one who restrains his lips is wise.

Proverbs 10:19

It doesn’t matter who you are or how long you’ve been around, it doesn’t hurt to be reminded of the words of this proverb. We know that the things we say can have consequences, both intended and unintended. A measured way of speaking is more profitable to both the hearer and the speaker.

So if you care about someone, as we should as followers of Jesus, speak with care; demonstrate through both restraint and kindness that what you are saying matters. And if you can’t show care for someone, don’t speak.

After all, we all know the other (non-biblical) proverb: if you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all.

Ethan Kirl

Originally Published June 4, 2021