Lady REDEEMED

Dear readers,

Today I pose a question. Should we share our opinion without being asked? Perhaps it is lawful, but it is proper, is it best?

The scripture asks us to pray for those in power that we may lead quiet and peaceable lives in all godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:2). Another version (ESV) phrases it “that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way”.

In a society where people are practically foaming at the mouth, that they may have their voice heard and pierce with the sword of the tongue those that disagree with them, perhaps it is better for us to hold our peace. I am not objecting to zealous displays, but in a world that is lost, and angry, and in need of our Savior, perhaps rather than anger, although often wholly justified, the world would benefit from more quiet and humble spirits who seek to honor God in their day to day lives, and with their tongues. Social media is rampant with self expression and opinionated individuals, believers and nonbelievers alike, but personally these days as I’ve continued to grow in Jesus, I have favored holding my tongue and not becoming involved with such emotionally charged debates, favoring rather to speak the truth if I am directly asked.

It is wisdom to know when to speak and when to hold your tongue, and I am certainly far from adept at this skill. But you seldom convince someone of your point by arguing with them, and our speech is to be seasoned with salt, not to be confused with using salty language.

Colossians 4:6 encourages us “Let your speech always be gracious, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how you ought to answer each person”.

We are also told to have nothing to do with senseless controversies that breed quarrels (2 Timothy 2:23).

If we are to be in the world and yet set apart from it, we must learn to control our tongue and not let it be driven by anger or impulse. We must learn to speak wisely, and more often than not to speak softly, or not at all. People will remind me that Jesus turned tables, but interestingly enough, that was in the church, not the tax city square. Furthermore, surely Jesus, the living God, was more qualified to determine the appropriate response for that moment than we are.

All these things are just to ponder, and I would enjoy learning of your opinion or approach to matters such as this. Please feel free to comment, whether you agree or disagree. I am not afraid, nor should you be, of respectful discussion where opinions differ, in fact it is good for us. Bear in mind we must never compromise the truth, whether or not it is well received.

May you walk in peace as He leads you this week, as He upholds you with His Word, and His hand.

With very great love,

~Lady Redeemed