- Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding. Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent. Proverbs 16:27-28 – Most of the proverbs don’t have a general theme to the chapter, but is simply a gathering and arranging of Solomon’s proverbs. Chapter 17 though has a small theme about seeking peace with one another. It teaches about seeking love to cover offenses in verse 9 and about the wisdom of setting aside strife so it doesn’t cause lasting damaging in verse 14. In these last two verses we see the wisdom of silence. Often the easy move is to speak and let the unchecked emotions fly. Someone hurt us, someone was rude to us, or someone did something to a loved one…and we open our mouth in response…and often what comes out is not a blessing. Scripture is reminding us that the peace-bringing, godly choice in these situations that are ripe for hurting one another is to hold your words and cool down. Words said in anger are usually not the best words we could say in a situation and handling another person in the heat of an argument usually leads to things we’ll have to seek forgiveness over later. Scripture says even a fool who gets this and remains silent at such times is deemed intelligent and wise. Force yourself then in situations to pause, breathe, and approach possibly volatile situations with a cool attitude that is not fueled by frustration or anger. Stay your words and possibly step away if needed for a moment. You will better love one another and better represent our Savior when you restrain your words in these heated times and instead approach with gentleness and patience. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 2925
- The beginning of strife is like letting out water, so quit before the quarrel breaks out. Proverbs 17:14 – I had written this note in my Bible awhile ago concerning this verse. “It will start small but will grow much larger and you can never predict the damage it will cause.” Never think that a grudge against someone or anger towards them won’t cause collateral damage. You may think it’s only going to damage the one you are directing your anger at but there are innocent bystanders like children, spouses, coworkers, and church family that will be hurt in the process of you letting out that anger towards someone. It’s like the opening of an dam during a flood, the water will rush out hitting anything in its path, including the things you wish to protect. That’s why this verse says quit before even the fight starts. Forgive and find forgiveness. While that may be a hit to your pride, it’s better than lifelong damage to the ones you love because you let your bitterness flow. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 688
- Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends. Proverbs 17:9 – When it says “covers an offense” don’t think of someone trying to hide a wrong done so they don’t get in trouble. It’s meaning they are seeking to not dwell on the wrong done to them, to “cover it up” from their focus. Scripture says the person that seeks to not dwell on the hurt done to them is one who seeks love once again with others. This should be the way we respond to the hurt done to us. Not to dwell deeply on it, harboring anger and allowing evil thoughts to fester. This doesn’t mean we should always stay close to those who hurt us, the very next line speaks on how those who repeat a hurt creates separation between people. Our goal should always be to seek and show forgiveness. No matter the hurt, no matter who it is. Jesus is calling us to follow His lead on this and He never put qualifiers on His forgiveness. Seek love and peace always with others as far it depends on you. I love you, but Jesus loves you more – Mac – Daily DEVO 1699
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