Stay in Control!!

Hello again!
Friends: I apologize for being "MIA" - there were several logistical and technical difficulties that occurred recently and prevented me from studying with you!! I missed you guys ALOT!!! I am sure that you did your own personal study; but I just really missed our studying together!!! It's good to be back...

We are looking at Proverbs 17 today and my bold print is verse 27, NLTse:

27 A truly wise person uses few words; a person with understanding is even-tempered.

I won't ask how many of you have "opened mouth and inserted foot" before. I know all your hands would be raised!! We have all been there, right? Then afterwards; we beat ourselves up wishing we had kept our "big trap" shut! Verse 27 offers us some insight regarding why this happens and how to prevent it...

What usually precedes our opening "big trap yappin'" incident? There is usually some kind of conversation going on that we are a part of or overhear, but we don't just listen do we? We wait for any opportunity to open our "big yap" and without thinking we say something; ANYTHING!! We don't think before speaking we just SAY IT! Then comes the guilt and dread because we have hurt someone's feelings, or said something really dumb that makes us look dumber; or the worst scenario is that everyone there just looks at each other and shakes their heads!!! Ever been there? I have --- TOO many times!!

Verse 27 tells us that a truly wise person uses few words & remains calm. He or she is in control of their mouth and emotions; keeping their mouth SHUT! A truly wise person THINKS before he speaks and what comes out is a result of all the wisdom they have applied themselves to. In an earlier post, we discussed being that "go to person" that people come to for advice and counsel. When is the last time that you asked advice from someone who is always running their mouth and saying dumb things??? (Something to think about)

So, be wise today, control your emotions and use words with wisdom and restraint. Listen more than you speak; it shows wisdom and understanding. By the way: PEEK AT VERSE 28 NOW...

Make wise decisions today and use your words wisely!!!