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Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. Proverbs 17:28 NLT
Here’s a little grammar lesson: the word even, which begins today’s scripture, is an adverb. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary says it is “used as an intensive to stress an extreme or highly unlikely condition or instance.”
The highly unlikely instance here is that a fool is considered wise. A buffoon comes across as intelligent. What causes that unexpected circumstance? Silence. When the fool stops talking, his perceived IQ skyrockets.
Hopefully, you’re no fool. But if “even” a fool is considered wise in his silence, how much wiser would a good man seem by simply talking less? Think how often Peter and some of Jesus’ other disciples embarrassed themselves by blurting out foolish, impetuous words. Or think about those times you’ve said things you wish you could take back. The wisdom of Proverbs 17:18 becomes crystal clear.
The good news is that this advice can be followed by any man at any time. Silence takes no special knowledge or skill, just an intentional commitment to slow down, listen more, and talk less.
Just think: If others view you as wiser and more intelligent, they may even ask what makes you different. Then you can speak up to tell them about “wisdom itself,” Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 1:30). What could be smarter than that?
Prayer: God of wisdom, may I use my words sparingly—but when I do speak, talk of You.
Here’s a little grammar lesson: the word even, which begins today’s scripture, is an adverb. Merriam-Webster’s dictionary says it is “used as an intensive to stress an extreme or highly unlikely condition or instance.”
The highly unlikely instance here is that a fool is considered wise. A buffoon comes across as intelligent. What causes that unexpected circumstance? Silence. When the fool stops talking, his perceived IQ skyrockets.
Hopefully, you’re no fool. But if “even” a fool is considered wise in his silence, how much wiser would a good man seem by simply talking less? Think how often Peter and some of Jesus’ other disciples embarrassed themselves by blurting out foolish, impetuous words. Or think about those times you’ve said things you wish you could take back. The wisdom of Proverbs 17:18 becomes crystal clear.
The good news is that this advice can be followed by any man at any time. Silence takes no special knowledge or skill, just an intentional commitment to slow down, listen more, and talk less.
Just think: If others view you as wiser and more intelligent, they may even ask what makes you different. Then you can speak up to tell them about “wisdom itself,” Jesus Christ (1 Corinthians 1:30). What could be smarter than that?
Prayer: God of wisdom, may I use my words sparingly—but when I do speak, talk of You.
