WHEN TO SPEAK AND WHEN TO BE SILENT

How many times did people try to help us see the truth about our problem when we were in active addiction?  How many times did we ignore what they said and just continue in our rebellious ways?  As we share the message of life with God in recovery with others, we need to pray for wisdom to know when to speak and when to simply pray and leave people until they are ready.

Never correct conceited people; they will hate you for it. But if you correct the wise, they will respect you. Anything you say to the wise will make them wiser. Whatever you tell the righteous will add to their knowledge.  (Proverbs 9:8-9 GNT)

It's a good idea to first share with others in a measured way and watch their reaction. This is particularly true for those who see us now living in recovery but are not yet willing to admit their own difficulties and need for change.  We may not agree with everything a person says when we share, but it is not necessary to always confront it.  Silence has its place.  Every conversation with others can lead us to a conversation with God and He will show us when and what we are to say.

The right word at the right time is like precious gold set in silver. It makes a lot of sense to be a person of few words and to stay calm. (Proverbs 25:11, 17:27 CEV)

When we are with people who are longing to have hope for their future, we need to honour God by telling the story of His work in us that has given us life in recovery and hope. We need to simply share what effect responding to God’s word, or at times rejecting it, had in our own lives. We are a witness, not a judge.  We are to be those with stories of hope and comfort.  God’s Holy Spirit will do the rest.

To be wise you must first have reverence for the Lord. If you know the Holy One, you have understanding. Wisdom will add years to your life. You are the one who will profit if you have wisdom, and if you reject it, you are the one who will suffer.  (Proverbs 9:10-12 GNT)

Prayer: Loving God, You have made so many wonderful changes in my life that I am eager to share my experience, strength, and hope with others.  Help me to be wise and know when to speak and when to listen with respectful silence. Please help me see opportunities to share Your Good News and, as I open my mouth, fill it with Your words of hope. Amen