TeaTime Devotional July 3rd, 2025

Written By:  Melody Jessie

Scripture:       Proverbs 17:28(NIV)

Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent and discerning if they hold their tongues.

Testify:

Silence can allow an individual to listen, reflect, and observe without contributing to noise or confusion. I've learned that wisdom is not always about what one says, but also about knowing when not to speak. It highlights the significance of restraint and self-control in communication. This is not easy for me to do at times. We’ve been taught to speak our minds and not allow anyone to walk over us, but now that I've gotten older, my silence in some situations speaks volumes. Sometimes my silence can be deceiving, suggesting that either I’m upset or even scared to address situations, but that’s not so, just because I choose to remain silent is not an indicator that I’m upset or afraid. It first shows that I can refrain from participating in every conversation. As I practice being silent, if I speak less in conversations, I can be heard more and potentially have a greater impact on someone's life.

Edify

This verse is a concise and profound statement. It offers valuable insights into the importance of silence and restraints in communication. Solomon, in writing this, shows that wisdom transcends religious boundaries and resonates with people from various walks of life. This verse, at its core, suggests that sometimes even individuals who lack wisdom or understanding can appear wise when we choose to remain silent. There is a value in silence in a world where people rush to express their opinions and assert themselves. It reminds us that there are moments when saying nothing can be more beneficial than speaking impulsively. This verse also suggests that people tend to respect those who display discernment and self-control.

Apply

Keep your tongues, ladies.

As we practice shutting up, remember that being silent is a testament to the idea that it’s not just the words but the timing and context in which we utter them, that determines if we are wise and discerning.