Were you taught to never be afraid to speak as long as you were being truthful? The truth shall set you free–right? Not always.

Reading through Proverbs 21, my mind lingers on the verses about the nagging wife–the reminders that “it is better to live on a corner of the roof” or “in the desert, than with a nagging, irritable wife.” I picture men scattered about on rooftops and wonder–will they still track mud all through the house or will there be a ladder outside leading them to their corner? But, it truly is no joking matter, and the message of guarding your tongue is not just for women.

It is essential to always tell the truth when you speak but most often, silence is best. There are great dangers hiding behind the best intentions. What you desire to say may be a valid truth, but it may be as harmful as a lie if spoken at the wrong time. Good intentions may backfire on you if you don’t consider the circumstances first: Where are you? Who are you speaking to? What words are you choosing, and what is your tone of voice?

Do people feel as though you are elevating yourself above them, demanding your opinion to become their own?  None of us likes to be criticized and most of our own opinions do not need to be spoken. People who will wait for God’s instructions, words, attitudes, and time, will live with less drama, less misunderstanding, less hurt in their lives.

Rabban Shimon ben Gamliel stated: “Silence prevents one from saying harmful or hurtful things.” Proverb 21 states: “Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps himself out of trouble.” Let the Lord be the guard at the door of your mouth today.