Thu 29 Jul, 2010
Click here to download a printable version of the Daily Bible Study for 7.29.10.
THURSDAY — The Wisdom of Silence
Today’s Big Point: Sometimes silence can be the wisest form of wisdom.
Silence… gentle silence. Why is it important to be silent? When we are silent we can hear from God, wait on him, be near to him, and listen. When we are silent we can get control of our emotions and gather our thoughts. The silence of restraint, a silence of wisdom, is knowing when to speak and when not to. Power withholding itself is far greater than power exerting itself. In Esther’s story, she never talked about her Jewish heritage… until the time was right. She never talked about how evil Haman was… until the time was right. She didn’t complain about her situation. She remained silent and waited for God. Her Godly behavior is what gained the respect of the king, so when the right time came for her to speak, he would listen.
READ…What does the Bible say?
Proverbs 16:16 (New Living Translation)
How much better to get wisdom than gold, and good judgment than silver!
Proverbs 25:11 (God’s word translation)
Like golden apples in silver settings, so is a word spoken at the right time.
Proverbs 17:28 (New Living Translation)
Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent.
James 1:5 (New International Version)
If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.
THINK…Find the answers
Read Proverbs16:16 and Proverbs 25:11. What is so wise about knowing the appropriate timing for how and when we should speak?
According to James 1:5, what is one way we can receive wisdom? How does a person know that he or she lacks wisdom?
LIVE…What will you do now?
The ability to be silent at appropriate times is just one example of wise behavior. List wise behaviors you need to begin engaging in and don’t remember to currently practice (example: remembering your body is a temple and keeping it holy).
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We all find ourselves in situations where it is tempting to unload a verbal lashing or stonewall in silence. Often, there are underlying beliefs or attitudes (like pride) that cause us to speak when we should remain silent.
1. What are common situations where you find yourself speaking at a time when silence would be wise? Instead of giving someone a “piece of your mind”, how could you demonstrate spiritual wisdom in that situation?
2. Can you identify some of the beliefs or attitudes that cause you to abandon God’s wisdom for your own? (For example: pride, desire to “fix”)
EXTRA CREDIT: Browse through the book of Proverbs. Find a verse that conveys wisdom. Write out that verse in the space below and why you chose that verse. (It would be great to find a verse that provides wisdom in an area where you are currently struggling!)
PRAY…God, what do you want me to know & do?
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you that all we have to do, Lord, is ask you for wisdom and you will give it to us. I pray in all of our lives, our jobs, our families, you would help us be silent when we need to be and speak the right word at the right time. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
DAILY BIBLE READING: Luke 24
Luke 24:1-2 All four gospels agree that women first discovered the empty tomb on Sunday morning and that the resurrected Jesus first appeared to women. Women were not considered reliable witnesses in first century Jerusalem; therefore, it is unlikely that the followers of Jesus would have created a story with women as the primary witnesses.
Luke 24:13-35 The Road to Emmaus account only appears in Luke.
Luke 24:31 Jesus’ disappearance confirms he received a unique and glorified resurrection body.
Luke 24:36-49 Jesus appears to the Emmaus disciples and the remaining eleven disciples.
Luke 24:39 “Look at my hands and feet.” This is evidence that Jesus was nailed rather than tied to the cross. Additionally, Jesus’ resurrection is not his pre-crucifixion body being brought back to life. Rather, Jesus resurrected into a new and glorified body.
