Stand: A 5-Day Devotional for Leading & Living Authenticallyናሙና

Day 2: I Need To Give This Some Thought

Remember the childhood adage, “Speak only when you’re spoken to”? I’d like to reframe it in a less silencing way. Your voice is valuable and should not be taken lightly. Whether in the workplace, in your marriage, or in your home, you will continually have to navigate when to speak and when to remain silent. Both are equally viable postures to take, and both will require you to be sensitive to the voice of God as He gently nudges you into action, or inaction in many instances. 

So speak when you’re spoken to. In other words, speak when you sense God’s divine timing and inspiration. You don’t always have to have something to say. This will take some practice. You cannot afford to be hotheaded-hiding behind passion, drive, and emotions as excuses for flying off the handle. Words are way too costly. 

“Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” (Proverbs 17:28) 

There is nothing wrong with deferring a conversation or decision to give it the time, prayer, and reflection it needs. In fact, there is no dishonour in saying, “I don’t have the answer right now,” or “I need to give this some thought.” As a leading lady, stand your ground and do not allow yourself to be bullied into snap decisions that you have not reached a sound resolve on. “Do you see someone who speaks in haste? There is more hope for a fool than for them” (Proverbs 29:20). I recognize we are not always afforded the time we need, but what we cannot afford is the cost of not paying attention to God’s still, gentle voice. 

Today’s Prayer Challenge 

Dear God, help me to develop the discipline to weigh my words, the discernment to wait on your timing, and the wisdom to know when not to speak at all. I recognize I may be driven by the desire to appear right. Forgive me, and heal that hidden bit of insecurity so I can lead with integrity and not be driven by insecurity. Amen. 

A Thought to Ponder 

Listen liberally, and speak as though your words are food and there is an international famine.

Journal Prompt

I will wait on god’s direction for...