“In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.“
— Proverbs 10:19 KJV
Reflection on Today's Verse
This verse hits hard, especially in a world that thrives on constant chatter—tweets, posts, debates, and opinions flying everywhere. It’s like Solomon is giving us a timeless warning: the more we talk, the more likely we are to say something we’ll regret. And honestly, haven’t we all been there?
Words have weight. When we speak without thinking, we risk gossip, exaggeration, half-truths, or even outright lies. We might hurt someone, damage relationships, or reveal more about ourselves than we should. But silence—or at least thoughtful restraint—shows wisdom. It doesn’t mean we should never speak, but that we should choose our words with care.
James echoes this wisdom when he says, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry” (James 1:19). It’s about self-control. Sometimes, the most powerful thing we can do in a heated moment is just… pause. Pray. Reflect. Ask: Is what I’m about to say true? Is it necessary? Will it build up or tear down?
Jesus himself embodied this. He spoke with purpose, never just to fill silence. Even when falsely accused, he remained silent before his accusers (Matthew 26:63). His words had authority because they weren’t wasted.
So maybe today, we take a step back. Before firing off that response, before venting frustration without thinking, we let wisdom lead. Because sometimes, the most godly thing we can say… is nothing at all.
Personal Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are the God of truth, and Your words bring life. But so often, my own words fall short—they come too quickly, too carelessly, and sometimes with more harm than good. Lord, I ask for Your wisdom to guard my tongue. Teach me to pause before I speak, to weigh my words with grace, and to choose silence when it is wiser than speech.
Help me resist the urge to speak just to fill the air or prove a point. Instead, let my words be honest, kind, and uplifting. Give me discernment to know when to listen, when to speak, and when to simply be still. May my speech reflect Your love and truth, bringing encouragement rather than harm.
Jesus, You spoke with purpose, never wasting words, and even in silence, You displayed strength. Help me to follow Your example. Let my words be few but full of grace, and let my heart be so in tune with You that everything I say brings glory to Your name.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.