Saving Face!

Saving grace is a magnanimous and precious gift of God. Saving face, on the other hand, may be a gift we give ourselves. Someone has advised, “The best way to save face is to keep the lower half of it closed.” [source: "1600 Squibs And Quips", compiled by E. C. McKenzie] How often do we find ourselves saying the wrong thing?

Solomon noted…
“(1) For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: … (7) a time to tear, and a time to sew; A TIME TO KEEP SILENCE, AND A TIME TO SPEAK;” ( Ecclesiastes 3:1 & 7 ESV)

We know there is such a time for each. Wisdom is knowing which is which. Perhaps we have encountered those who have nothing to say, but insist on saying it.

Solomon also pointed at that…
“Even a fool who KEEPS SILENT is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.” ( Proverbs 17:28 ESV)

It appears that keeping the MOUTH SHUT is good advice for just about everyone. There may be times we feel like saying something which is best not said. That is why James advised it is best to be quick to listen, SLOW TO SPEAK, and slow to becoming angry. ( James 1:19) Serious consideration needs to be given to the impact of our words.

Solomon also stated that…
“Whoever belittles his neighbor lacks sense, but A MAN OF UNDERSTANDING REMAINS SILENT.” ( Proverbs 11:12 ESV)

Here is one who knows when to HOLD THE TONGUE. Perhaps this is the individual who tries to place themselves in the other’s shoes. There is an attempt to be neighborly, striving to get along by helping rather than hurting. It is truly a small person who puts others down in an attempt to elevate self. It’s also sad when “grudge fences” are erected so that neighbors can live as if the other does not exist.

Note one more of the many statements Solomon made regarding speech.
“When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but WHOEVER RESTRAINS HIS LIPS IS PRUDENT.” ( Proverbs 10:19 ESV)

Continual talk can eventually get us into trouble. Either we will say something we regret or people will get tired of listening to us. Let us consider the impact and relevance of what we say as we look to God for His wisdom to know when to speak and when to BE SILENT. That SILENCE may speak a powerful message of love, meekness, patience, and understanding that will open a door for when a good word does need to be spoken.

Have a great day RECOGNIZING SILENCE CAN BE GOLDEN!
Carl

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