This poem was inspired by an article I read in the March 2014 issue of The Oprah Magazine, written by
Dr Phillip C. McGraw, entitled “Never Miss a Good Chance to Shut Up!”
We all want to be heard
And understood
Sharing a confidence
Can feel oh so good
But disclosed thoughts
And information
Empower the listener
With sweet temptations
To use against you
Exploit you in some way
Not earning your trust
When words are freely displayed
But vengeance is mine
Says the Lord
So hold off on any
Attempt to restore
Because it’s not your battle
To always fight
Straightening everyone out
Or to prove you’re right
If your heart is in the right place
You will find
You don’t have to do the talking
All the time
Engage your brain
Before you put your mouth in gear
Amaze at what you can learn
When you take time to hear
It is best to listen
Let the Lord build you up
And never miss
A good chance to shut up!
Power Verses:
Proverbs 10:19-21 (NIV)
“Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues. The tongue of the righteous is choice silver, but the heart of the wicked is of little value. The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of sense.”
