Breaking the Silence

King Solomon wrote that there is a time for everything - that includes silence. I have discovered that in life there are times when God is silent - testing my faith and my faithfulness. There are also times when I am silent - because I have nothing of real value to add to the conversation. Speaking would only prove the point. The book of Proverbs has a lot to say on that subject. I have learned, through my own folly and humiliation, that great wisdom is often reflected in silence. I often think of the quote from Bambi when Thumper said, "If you can't say something nice, don't say nothin' at all." I'll take a little creative license and say, if you can't say something of value, don't say nothin' at all.

Our culture is full of people who would prove their wisdom by not speaking of things they do not have understanding of or solutions for. Unfortunately, many of those people hold positions of authority and influence. Sadder still is that many of them claim the name of Christ and offer their own understanding instead of the truth and wisdom of God. God forbid that I should become one of them. I am thankful for his correction, and that he gives wisdom to all who ask. "But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him." James 1:5 (NASB)

During the Imagine Campaign we have discussed that God is concerned with our spiritual growth and he doesn't need our money. Well, the truth is, most people don't need my two cents, either. My times of silence often come after I have failed on this point and God reminds me that I need his wisdom or I have nothing to say. So, I spend some time watching, waiting, listening - until God gives me something of value to add to the conversation again.