Stop speaking

Pr. 23:9: “Do not speak in the hearing of a fool, for he will despise the wisdom of your words.”

The Bible describes a fool as one who has said in his heart, “there is no God.” For those of us who deeply love and believe in God, knowing that someone we love does not also believe can be deeply painful. We do not wish that our loved ones would pass away not believing, and not going to their eternal life in heaven. It is also sad to watch loved ones not living this life empowered by the Lord and the Holy Spirit.

As Christians, we understand the power that comes from surrendering to the Lord, and we wish that for those we love. It is natural for us to talk about the Lord on a daily basis, but when faced with an unbeliever, these conversations can be seen as offensive or even turn into hurtful debates. I think we can gather from Solomon that although we have much wisdom within us, there is a time when we must simply cease our speaking.

This is where it become imperative that we are walking in the Spirit. If we simply trust in the Lord, love Him with all our hearts, walk in His power, and allow His Spirit to guide us, it will be evident to those around us. We must be the example of the reasons why believing in and trusting in the Lord is the best option.

I am not saying we shouldn’t witness to others. I believe we should be full of the wisdom of the Lord and ready to offer praise and answers about Him at all times. There comes a point; however, when our words become despised. Our words, when heard over and over, can begin to grate on the nerves of one who does not believe.

So what do we do? We walk in the Spirit. We live a life that honors God. We pray. This is where prayer is truly an imperative. We must bring our loved ones before the Lord, who is the One who has given salvation. The word says that the Holy Spirit is the One who convicts sinners. (John 16:8) The Holy Spirit guides us into all truth. (John 16:13) The Holy spirit also teaches all things and brings to remembrance the things the Lord has spoken to us (and to our loved ones). (John 14:26)

Notice that the Holy Spirit does the teaching, the truth-telling, and the convicting. Yes, we must be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks us to give the reason for the hope we have, but an answer requires a question. If the hope of God shows in our lives, someone may just ask us why. We can then answer their question. If we don’t show any hope and only try to do the convicting ourselves, our words will be despised.

We must let go and let God do His job. He does not wish that any should perish, but that all should be brought to repentance. Our job is to continue in the truth, in His wisdom, in faith, in hope and in prayer, showing the love and meekness of Christ.

Praying with you,

jamie