Have you heard many times that silence can be the loudest form of communication? It really is and this “Life Practice” of mine has become an effective tool for me lately. Even the Bible admonishes that;
“Even a [callous, arrogant] fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise; When he closes his lips he is regarded as sensible (prudent, discreet) and a man of understanding.” Proverbs 17:28 AMP.
You don’t always have to utter words. Silence can speak volumes and actually keep you safer. Lord knows that if everyone said what they were thinking or processing in their head, over a situation or towards someone, it would be a much more disastrous world. Let me caution here that using your silence should not mean bottling things up inside or not voicing out your opinions. God gave you a voice to communicate but you have to be very circumspective on when and where to say what you want to say. Sometimes we really waste our words and thoughts. My work as a Consultant means companies pay me for my thoughts and ideas so they are always eager to hear what I have to say concerning a situation. What I have to say directs the right efforts and develops the right people for them, so, imagine wasting those words on someone or people who do not value it?
You can also find yourself in certain situations, conversations and even relationships which will sometimes require that you use the power of your silence to bring peace, show strength, exhibit class and most importantly protect yourself. There’s a quote by Plutarch which says that “Silence at the proper season is wisdom, and better than any speech.” Sometimes biting your tongue when it’s itching to speak is the hardest thing to do but, when you master the art of silence, you’re well on your way to a peaceful life. The last few months I’ve encountered so many situations where I wanted to let my tongue roll, literally, but somehow God gave me the grace to shut up! I laughed in my head when the opposing parties thought they had their moment but no, they did not. I had weighed them on a scale and realized they are not worth my responses or reactions so I stayed silent. I used to like to express my thoughts and say what’s on my heart so the people in my life never had to wonder if I’m happy or not but about a situation. The new me will only speak if it’s totally necessary but I will advise myself on whether to tolerate the situation/person or roll up the windows and drive forward.
My prayer for you this week is that the Lord will give you extraordinary wisdom in this area of your life. AMEN!
XOXO,
Lady Abena.