Apt Answer

Proverbs 15.23
“To make an apt answer is a joy to a man, and a word in season, how good it is!”

When you say something is as important as what you say. There is no right answer that is always appropriate. It is a joy to give a helpful answer to a problem, but it must be spoken at the right time and in the right way. Timing is critical.

If you want a productive and effective life, then learn how to be disciplined in your speech and use it for the benefit and encouragement of others. Scripture provides many admonitions and instructions on how to be disciplined and effective in your speech. Consider the following directives in scripture with respect to managing what you say and how.

It might seem tedious, but in addition to each bullet point, I encourage you to read carefully the scripture references. Listen intently to what the word of God says about managing your speech. Get a clear picture of God’s heart on this incredibly important topic.

• Listen attentively and speak cautiously (Prov 18:13; 29:20; James 1:19).

• Don’t say more than you need to. Speak with wisdom or be silent (Prov 10:19; 17:27-28; Eccl 5:3).

• Pray and exame your heart and your speech (Psalms 19:12-14; 139:23-24).

• Keep your heart pure and your words wise (Prov 4:23; 22:11; Luke 6:45).

• Always be gracious in what you say, how you say it, and why (Prov 11:16; 22:11; Eccl 10:12; Col 4:6).

• Make the glory of God the goal of your speech (Col 3:17; I Cor 10:31).

• Study to make sure your responses are aligned with truth (Prov 15:2,28; 16:23).

• Make sure what you say is fitting for the occasion (Prov 10:32; 25:20; I Cor 13:5).

• Choose words that build others up (Prov 12:18; Eph 4:29; I Cor 10:24).

• Use gentle words when a person is angry (Prov 15:1; 25:15; Judges 8:1-3).

• Give words of truth rather than mere opinion (Prov 22:17-22; I Pet 3:15).

• Learn wisdom to help others solve problems (Prov 10:21; 16:21; 27:9).

• Be encouraging and uplifting to others (Prov 12:25; 16:24; I Sam 23:16).

• Use pleasant rather than harsh words (Prov 16:24; Col 4:6; Luke 4:22).

• Do not debate or dispute with fools (Prov 23:9; 26:4-5; II Tim 2:23).

• Avoid complaining and negativity (Prov 17:20; Phil 2:14; Col 3:17).

• Reject pride and contention. Don’t be argumentative (Prov 13:10; 18:6; I Cor 6:7).

• Let negative words only season speech (Prov 26:5; Jas 3:9-12; Col 4:6).

• Avoid hurtful words behind a person’s back (Prov 11:13; 20:19; 25:9,23).

Incredible list, isn’t it? Do you see and feel the Lord’s emphasis on managing what you say? Trust God and be disciplined in your words.