Foolin around

Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.

I know I like to talk a lot. It used to be so much worse. I would just babble all day long about nothing. I don't really even know what I thought I was accomplishing. But how many examples do I have of  regretting what you've said. Too many. I have forgotten specific examples - time is a great healer and eraser, but I do remember that I talked way to much. I've gotten better at listening now. (Answered prayer)

What I think is funny is that even in secular TV or general non-Christian culture, there is an understanding that people who chatter aimlessly are foolish. The silent and reserved, even if seen as prideful or off-putting, are still deemed to be more intelligent then those who can't stop talking.

I think of the book Pride and Prejudice (oh yeah, it relates:]). Specifically there is this scene where Jane Bennett is sick, and Lizzie has come to the house where she is to see her. This house contains Mr. Bingley, Miss Bingley, and Mr. Darcy. Miss Bingley and Mr. Darcy are my focus here. Darcy has already begun to favor Lizzie Bennett and Caroline Bingley is jealous. So in order to keep attention on herself, she just keep saying the silliest things without end. It's actually quite funny to read. Darcy on the other hand, says very little in response to Caroline. In the end, Darcy seems thoughtful whereas Caroline seems silly.

No girl wants to seem silly.

This is why I have tried so hard to control my speech. Praise the Lord that I am improving. I still have a long way to go. I have a strong tendency to speak before thinking. Which is trouble no matter how you look at it.

Lord, I pray that You'd help me control my speech. Help me to say things that are wise and helpful to those around me. Let silly words and useless conversation be far from me. Let the words of my mouth be a blessing to others and bring honor to You. Let me never speak just to fill the silence, but let me always speak with intentions of building up and loving. I pray that You slow my thoughts that I might reflect before blurting things out. Give me the wisdom to improve in this area.


Amen. Amen. Amen.