Let your words be few
We all know people who love to talk! They just can’t help themselves, as they ‘chit-chat’ about everything, all the time! Perhaps you are a bit like that?
Most of the time it’s fine, as they are often great storytellers. Some have the ability to make the most mundane things sound like an epic adventure!
On the other hand, there are those who just go on and on. They are the kind of people you may try to avoid if you are in a rush, as you know you will be held up for a while.
Of course, talking is important. It’s an essential part of what makes us human. We talk about all aspects of life: triumphs and tragedies, successes and failures, hopes and dreams.
One can only see the sheer frustration, in those tragic situations, when people lose the ability to talk.
However, talking is just one side of the coin, as we also need to listen. Sometimes we need to ‘really’ listen with empathy and compassion.
In the Bible there is a book called Ecclesiastes, which was written by someone simply known as ‘The Teacher’. Most believe that the anonymous author was King Solomon, who shared thoughts on the mystery and meaning of life. As he pondered his relationship with God, he said…
“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than to offer the sacrifice of fools, who do not know that they do wrong.
Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God.
God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few.”
The Teacher said that when someone comes before God, they should think about what they say and do. It is better to guard your tongue, to come and listen rather than say a lot.
He is not saying that we should never talk to God (praying), but he emphasises the importance of listening, and then acting on what God said. It makes sense to me.
In my life, there are a handful of people who I admire and respect. I always want to hear what they have to say, as they have deeply affected me and shaped me. I come to listen and learn.
As we come before God in this way, I believe there are a few things I have seen happen:
Perspective: There are times when I have brought difficult or challenging situations to God. As I ‘lay them at His feet’, I then get His perspective on things, and I let go of trying to work it out on my own.
His Voice: As I listen and wait, I actively give space, allowing God to speak. Sometimes it is immediate, but more often it takes some time – God speaks when He is ready.
Next Steps: There have been times when I have wanted to act or respond in a certain way, but after listening, God reveals another pathway, often highlighting something in me!
God bless
Gary Bastin - Hope Community Church leader