Timely Words

You may have heard the adage “Timing is everything.” According to the Bible, good timing applies to our words and speech too. Think of a time when God used you to bring a timely word to refresh someone or when you wanted to speak, but it was wiser to remain silent. On the contrary, I am guilty of sending unfiltered tweets, some of which have quickly returned to bite me on the behind forcing to defend or in some cases, recant the offending statement.

The Bible says that there is an appropriate times to speak (Ecclesiastes 3:7). Solomon compared properly time and well-spoken words with golden apples in silver setting – beautiful, valuable, and carefully crafted (Proverbs 25:11-12). Knowing the right time to speak is beneficial for both the speaker and hearer, whether they are words of love, encouragement, or rebuke. Your tone of voice can be the difference between being a blessing and a hindrance to someone! More importantly, keeping silent can also have its advantages. When we’re tempted to roast someone or make derisive comments about an idea, Solomon reminds us that it is better to hold our tongues, recognizing the times for silence. When chattiness or anger tempts us to sin against God or another human being, resistance comes by being slow to speak (James 1:19).

It is often hard to know what to say and when to say it. The Spirit will help us to be discerning. He will use the right words at the right time, tone, and manner for the good of others and for His honor.

Timely words are works of art.