When Not To Speak
1—In the heat of anger “A man of quick temper acts foolishly, and a man of evil devices is hated.” (Proverbs 14:17, ESV)
2—When you don’t have all the facts “If one gives an answer before he hears, it is his folly and shame.” (Proverbs 18:13, ESV)
3—When it is unverified. “Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him.” (Proverbs 29:20, ESV)
4—When you are tempted to joke about sin. “Fools mock at the guilt offering, but the upright enjoy acceptance.” (Proverbs 14:9, ESV)
5—If you would later be ashamed. “The words of a whisperer are like delicious morsels; they go down into the inner parts of the body.” (Proverbs 18:8, ESV)
6—If you it would convey the wrong impression “Whoever restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding.” (Proverbs 17:27, ESV)
7—If you want to appear wise. “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise; when he closes his lips, he is deemed intelligent.” (Proverbs 17:28, ESV)
8—If it is none of your concern. “The heart knows its own bitterness, and no stranger shares its joy.” (Proverbs 14:10, ESV)
9—When you are tempted to lie “Put away from you crooked speech, and put devious talk far from you.” (Proverbs 4:24, ESV)
10—When it would destroy a friendship. “A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends.” (Proverbs 16:28, ESV)
11—If it would damage a reputation. “A worthless man plots evil, and his speech is like a scorching fire.” (Proverbs 16:27, ESV)
12—If you would have to eat the words later “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.” (Proverbs 18:21, ESV)
13—If you have already said it. “A wise son hears his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.” (Proverbs 13:1, ESV)
14—If it is time to listen.“A wise son hears his father’s instruction, but a scoffer does not listen to rebuke.” (Proverbs 13:1, ESV)
15—When it is time to work “In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.” (Proverbs 14:23, ESV)
Yesterday was my day off. I normally like to stay on Bittersweet Farm and putter and read and study and do little chores, depending on the season, but I got a call from one of our missionaries who happens to be the husband of my niece Elisabeth and we agreed to meet for lunch at Zingerman’s Delicatessen in Kerry Town—a neighborhood in Ann Arbor. 
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