How can we discern when to speak or withhold information today? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 10:16: “Saul said to his uncle, ‘He just told us that the donkeys had been found.’ But Saul did not tell his uncle what Samuel had said about the kingship.” What Saul Shared—and What He Withheld • Saul answered honestly about the donkeys. • He deliberately kept quiet about Samuel’s private word regarding the throne. • His silence protected God’s timing and avoided premature controversy. Scripture Echoes on Wise Restraint • Ecclesiastes 3:7 — “a time to be silent and a time to speak.” • Proverbs 10:19 — “When words are many, transgression is unavoidable, but he who restrains his lips is wise.” • Matthew 7:6 — guarding holy things from those who would trample them. • John 19:9 — Jesus kept silent before Pilate when further words would serve no purpose. Principles for Timely Silence • Protecting sacred trust – Divine revelations or confidential matters require discretion (Luke 2:19; Mark 5:43). • Guarding unity – Unripe news can stir strife; patience allows God’s plan to unfold (Proverbs 17:14). • Avoiding needless harm – Withholding details that would injure reputations or inflame tempers (Proverbs 12:18). Times to Speak Up • Truth-telling to stop sin or injustice (Ephesians 4:25; Proverbs 24:11). • Confessing Christ and sharing the gospel (Acts 4:20; Romans 10:9-10). • Offering needed counsel and comfort (Proverbs 15:23; 2 Corinthians 1:4). • Giving testimony that honors God’s work (Psalm 107:2). Guardrails for Discernment • Motive check: desire God’s glory, not self-protection or manipulation (1 Corinthians 10:31). • Audience check: consider the hearers’ readiness and benefit (Colossians 4:6). • Timing check: seek alignment with God’s unfolding plan (Proverbs 16:1, 9). • Content check: ensure words are true, necessary, and gracious (Ephesians 4:29). • Prayerful dependence: ask for wisdom and restraint (James 1:5; Psalm 141:3). Heart Posture Behind the Choice • Humility—recognizing that silence can serve others better than speech (Philippians 2:3-4). • Courage—willingness to speak when truth or mercy demands, regardless of cost (Acts 20:27). • Trust—resting in God’s sovereignty over outcomes, whether words are spoken or withheld (Psalm 62:8). Following Saul’s measured example, guided by the broader counsel of Scripture, cultivates the discernment needed to know when to open our mouths and when to keep them closed. |
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