Posted by Job 6:24
“Teach me, and I will be silent; make me understand how I have gone astray.”
Great statement by Job to his friends, who were convinced he must have been doing something wrong, to experience such suffering. I think Job’s statement, as true as it is, probably has a touch of sarcasm in it. Sarcasm aside, I believe he was being honest about not knowing where he may have gone wrong.
When reading Job, I’ve often thought; with friends like these, who needs enemies? Whether he received wise counsel from his friends, or not, his words are filled with wisdom. To be taught we must be quiet and listen. We must be willing to receive correction if we expect to grow in wisdom and knowledge.
Sit With God And Learn
Of course there will always be times when we need to pour out our heart before God. In those times of desperation or pain our words will naturally be many – and God understands that. As a general principle, I believe applying Job’s words to our fellowship with God, to be a great tool for personal growth. How can it not?
Listening to God is hearing wisdom itself speaking! You can’t miss! Solomon knew this when he wrote: “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few” (Ecclesiastes 5:2).
What a great prayer principle! It’s challenging to wrap our minds around the fact that; our dealings with God are in reality, greater than any other business the world has to tend to! Solomon must have witnessed many in the temple, rushing into God’s Presence spouting out the first thing that comes to mind. Haven’t we all seen it, and been there done that ourselves?
Let Your Words Be Few
Sometimes I think about the awesome reality of communicating with God, and I’m humbled. I cringe at the thought of how many times, I, a redeemed sinner, have gone off at the mouth before the Almighty infinitely wise and Holy God. I think David must have thought this as well. He considered that he was only granted the right of entering God’s Presence, “in the multitude of mercy.” (See Psalm 5:7) Now that’s a reality check!
Using few words wisely chosen, intentionally spoken before God, will save us from the babbling of “vain repetitions” Jesus warned about (Matthew 6:7-8). To let your words be few, is more about the quality than the quantity. A few words sincerely spoken from the heart, means more to God than a thousand spoken with little thought.
Follow Solomon’s advice, let your words be few and wisely chosen. Sit back and enjoy your time with God. Think before you speak, and in all sincerity say exactly what you mean. Wait for His response, have your pen handy and be ready to write, because God understands what is in your heart, He will reply accordingly and you will be encouraged. -JSP