May #jammed: Growing Grace.

Day 130: It’s easier on us.

“Don’t waste your breath on fools,
    for they will despise the wisest advice.” Proverbs 23:9 (VOICE)

Red and raw and dripping out incessantly over every sleeve, meal, and keyboard strike …my nose pulled the day’s productivity to halt. Out of tissues and onto toilet paper and paper towels, the skin on the edge of my nose began to sting …which somehow caused me to sneeze …and the misery left me staring at the empty box of lotion filled tissues in hopes it would magically fill itself up without a dripping trip to the store to get more.

When we try talk to someone who is not open to listening, it’s like running out of tissues. We’re just dripping all over them.

We are wise to save deep breaths for open ears. This doesn’t mean to stop talking to people that don’t agree with us, but rather to take caution in how much we air-out over ears that are not ready to listen. God’s timing trumps our multitude of words.

The NIV version of today’s verse swaps the word ‘breath’ out for ‘speak.‘ Both of these words are defined in multiple ways, and involve more investment as the definitions progress.

breath-a slight indication; a slight breeze; air inhaled and exhaled in breathing. Merriam-Webster

speak-to utter words or articulate sounds with the ordinary voice;  to make a written statement; to express feelings by other than verbal means. Merriam-Webster

These words give us great clues on how to approach conversation with said “fools.” People that are not open to conversation will interrupt, change the subject, and eventually bite right back. We are wise to take direction from these signals on how to prayerfully continue on in conversation.

Fools will scorn and despise advice and opposite opinions. Wise people will take constructive criticism to heart and be open to adverse conversation. In conversation with people, it’s important to consult God in prayer. The Author of time is always available because of Jesus’ authority. Talk to Him before over-talking an unlistening ear off. Remember, the way we live is much more important that what we say. That’s why the Word is always true …not people. Don’t rub people raw with words, pass them soft lotion filled tissues of grace.

Father, Praise You for wise Words. Thank You for the Bible, and the way You direct our days and guide our steps and thoughts through It. Forgive us for leaning on our own understanding all too often, and bless us to know which words are fruitful in conversation. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

 Get the conversation started by commenting below, and let’s encourage one another as we face life in 2017 armed with grace! 

#greatgrace17

Happy Talking,

Megs

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