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Ecclesiastes 3:7 - Speech Control.

Ecclesiastes 3:7 (NASB) A time to tear apart 
and a time to sew together; A time to be silent 
and a time to speak.  

INTRODUCTION

3:1-8 Timing is important. All the 
experiences listed in these verses are appropriate at 
certain times. The secret to peace with God is to 
discover, accept, and appreciate God's perfect timing. 
The danger is to doubt or resent God's timing. 
This can lead to despair, rebellion, or moving 
ahead without his advice. [Life Application SB] 

COMMENTARY PEARL

   "How's your mom doing after her 
gallbladder surgery?" I asked the grocery store 
cashier. 
   "Recovering well," she replied. "We 
appreciate your prayers." 
   I was about to say more when my daughter 
Melissa elbowed me in the ribs - my signal to stop 
talking and move on. 
   "Mom, didn't you see the line behind 
you?" Melissa scolded as we left the store. Over 
the years, my kids have voiced their annoyance 
and embarrassment about me chitchatting with 
most everyone I meet. I like people and am 
interested in their lives, but Melissa thinks it's 
inappropriate and nosy. 
   At my devotional time the next morning, I 
consulted the One I knew would be honest with me. 
Jesus, do I talk too much? Am I being nosy? 
   For the next several days, I practiced 
silence. I simply thanked the cashiers when they rang 
my purchases. I refrained from telling the 
mother pushing the stroller how cute her baby was. 
I even talked less around the house. My 
husband, Jeff, asked me if I was sick! 
   At a department store as I searched the 
shelves for my size, a clerk came up to me, a huge 
smile on her face. She reminded me I'd promised to 
pray for her daughter, who was experiencing a 
high-risk pregnancy. And I had. 
   "My grandson was born yesterday, and he 
and my daughter are fine," she said. Then she 
gave me a hug and thanked me for praying for her 
family. And I thanked Jesus for showing me it's OK 
to be chatty. Pat Butler Dyson 
   Faith Step: Ask Jesus to lead you when to 
speak and when to keep silent. [Mornings With 
Jesus 2024 Devotional by Guideposts and 
Zondervan] 

LINKS FOR FURTHER STUDY

Proverbs 10:19 (ESV) When words are many, 
transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his 
lips is prudent.  
Think Before You Speak

https://www.abible.com/devotions/2004/20040520-0937.html 

James 3:8 (NKJV) But no man can tame the 
tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly 
poison. 
We Need Christ For Speech Control.

https://www.abible.com/devotions/2022/20220228-0931.html 

LINKS WORTH CHECKING OUT

https://abible.com/links/