Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. -Ephesians 4:29

The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks. -Jesus, in Luke 6:45

I studied these scriptures yesterday as part of my tongue taming study. I am particularly convicted by the first passage, which tells us that our speech should only serve to build others up. I think I need a sign or something, to remind me every minute of every day: Before you say a word, consider this: is what you are about to say positive? Is it an overflow of the good in your heart, or the bad? Is it going to benefit the person listening?

Then I would probably not say what I was going to say. . . It's funny how we can get into these habits, after years of practice, that are destructive to our spirit. I think I have always used my speech as proof of my intellect, as a way of expressing how perceptive and insightful I am, as a writer, as a woman. Maybe I should consider this more often:

Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent, and discerning if he holds his tongue. -Proverbs 17:28

So, being quiet is a better way to be seen as wise!

Yesterday, I attended a party. There were all kinds of people that I respected there: writers, some famous writers whose work I love, and of course I talked and talked. And talked. I'm telling you, I need the sign. . . But when I think back on the night, I realize that those writers who I respect so much didn't really say much themselves. . . and they appeared so wise.

And I so foolish.

Thumper had it right: If you can't say somethin' nice, don't say nothin' at all.