God's Wisdom for Navigating Life by Timothy Keller

Author:Timothy Keller
Language: eng
Format: azw3, pdf
ISBN: 9780735222090
Publisher: Penguin Publishing Group
Published: 2017-11-07T05:00:00+00:00

July 8

The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. (17:27)

CALM WORDS. An even-tempered person is cool spirited. A hot-spirited person is excitable, impatient, and insistent on having their say now. A cool-spirited person is calm and patient. The wise know what they have to say may be true and crucial, but they also know God is in charge and only he can open hearts (cf. Acts 16:14; John 6:44).

“Three reasons can be found for this praise of calmness. First, it allows time for a fair hearing (Proverbs 18:13; cf. verse 17); second, it allows tempers to cool (15:1: “A gentle answer”); and third, its influence is potent: “A gentle tongue can break a bone” (25:15).152 Jesus never gave way to unrestrained or inflamed speech even when under the greatest affliction (Isaiah 53:7) or the greatest provocation (1 Peter 2:23). Keep in mind, though, Jesus is not merely an example to live up to. As your Savior he can send you his Holy Spirit, which gives us an inner love for him and changes us into his likeness.

Are your words always even tempered and calm? When was the last time they were not? What was the result?

Prayer: Father, when Elijah listened for you, you were not in the earthquake, wind, or fire but in the “still, small voice.” Though my sin should provoke you, you do not respond to me in wrath but in grace. Make my words calm and gracious, too. Amen.

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