According to the ancient Talmud, the Creator instructed the angel Gabriel to write on the forehead of the righteous signs so no sabotage angels can harm them. So Gabriel, the judge of us all, discerns and marks an invisible "R" for righteousness when we curb our reactive behavior. To hold our tongue is one of the hardest things to do, especially when we think we're right. The ego always wants to get the last word. I came across this wise list of verses on when to keep silent. Usually when I stumble upon a "find" such as this, it's a heads-up. I'm about to be tested, and to welcome all the help I can get.
May a warning bell (like in the picture) ring loudly in my head before I open my mouth and speak without thinking. Whosoever keepeth his mouth and tongue, keepeth his soul from trouble. (Proverbs 21)
In the heat of anger - Proverbs 4:17
When it's time to listen - Proverbs 13:1
When you're feeling critical - James 3:9
When you don't have all the facts - Proverbs 18:13
If you can't speak without yelling - Proverbs 25:28
If the issue is none of your business - Proverbs 14:10
When you are tempted to joke about sin - Proverbs 14:9
When you haven't verified the story - Deut. 17:6
IF you may have to eat your words later - Proverbs 18:21
If your words would destroy a friendship - Proverbs 16:28
When you are tempted to tell an outright lie - Proverbs 4:24
If your words will offend a weaker person - I Cor 8:11
If your words would convey a wrong impression - Proverbs 24:24
If your words will damage someone's reputation - Proverbs 16:27
When you are tempted to make light of holy things - Ecclesiastes 5:2
If you've already said it more than one time (it's now nagging) - Proverbs 19:13
Have a peaceful day with the help of your Guardian Angel, and may you pass every test.
Rae Karen
(graphic-clip art)
