We have several sayings directed at people who act rashly:
“Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.”
“Think before you speak.” Or a variant of that is “Think before you act.”
Sadly, we are a people of inflamed passions. I’m not speaking of the sexual, although that certainly can be included. I’m actually referring to our emotional state. How often have you seen (or been guilty yourself) of acting or reacting before you have thought out the consequences? You blow someone’s doors off and the collateral damage is huge. I once confronted someone who had a habit of blowing up at people-telling them off in a sense-and then acting like nothing happened. I asked her, “Why do you do that?” “Do what?” “You blow up at people, tell them off, then act as though nothing is wrong, as though all is forgiven and over.” “I tell them so they will know how I feel, then it’s over.” I said, “So is a tornado or hurricane. It unleashes its fury and then moves on, but look at the damage it leaves in its wake.” I let her think about that for a moment, then left. I’m not sure she ever learned the lesson!
Proverbs 13:16 says, “Wise people think before they act; fools don’t-and even brag about their foolishness.” (NLT)
Don’t be a fool. Think before you speak. Think before you act. Don’t be known as “one of those people.” You know…the kind of person others want to avoid.
Great and Godly advice, Bill.
Blessings!
Thanks Martha. I always hope so. 🙂
The Book of Proverbs has a lot to say about how we choose to share or not to share our thoughts with our speech…
Proverbs 17:28
Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent
Sometimes, it is best just not to speak at all.
Good verse to add Ryan. Thanks. And yes, sometimes it is best to just not speak
James says bridling the tongue is responsibility of a mature christian. Our speech should always glorify God,it is the righteousness that the Lord desires. Honestly, we should always respond not react to anything that is said to us. Pausing, praying then asking God to help with a response before just blurting out the wrong response, shows that our first priority is God and we will never go wrong with placing God first. Solomon warns us too of all the damage that our tongues can do, some words no matter how hard you try can never be taken back, and the damage can be irreversible.
You are so right Gail. The damage can be irreversible. That makes me cringe. I know I have spoken way too soon way too often.