When to Keep Your Mouth Shut

There are times throughout our lives when we are faced with situations that make us angry, upset or annoyed with other people. We might then begin to spread yell, argue, gossip, spread rumors, tear down the individuals that we may disagree with…the list can go on and on. The sad reality is, that many times, we are the ones that look foolish and end up “eating our words.”

Today’s post is a great reminder of what we should do when these circumstances come our way.  The following is a list is a compilation of helpful advice…I have included a Scripture verse (that you can click on) with each point.

DON’T OPEN YOUR MOUTH:

1. In the heat of anger – Proverbs 14:17
2. When you don’t have all the facts – Proverbs 18:13
3. When you haven’t verified the story – Deuteronomy 17:6
4. If your words will offend a weaker brother – 1 Corinthians 8:11
5. If your words will be a poor reflection of the Lord or your friends and family – 1 Peter 2:21-23
6. When you are tempted to joke about sin – Proverbs 14:9
7. When you would be ashamed of your words later – Proverbs 8:5
8. When you’re tempted to make light of Holy things – Ecclesiastes 5:2
9. If your words convey a wrong impression – Proverbs 17:27
10. If the issue is none of your business – Proverbs 14:10
11. When you are tempted to tell an outright lie – Proverbs 4:24
12. If your words will damage someone’s reputation – Proverbs 16:27
13. If your words will destroy a friendship – Proverbs 25:28
14. When you are feeling critical – James 3:9
15. If you cannot speak without yelling – Proverbs 25:28
16. When it is time to listen – Proverbs 13:1
17. If you have to eat your words later – Proverbs 18:21
18. When you are tempted to flatter a wicked person – Proverbs 24:24
19. If you have already said it more than one time (then it becomes nagging) – Proverbs 19:13
20. When you are supposed to be working instead – Proverbs 14:23

“Whosoever keepeth his mouth and his tongue, keepeth his soul from trouble.”