Chapter: Proverbs 17 | Verse: Proverbs 17:27
Just because you have something to say doesn’t mean it’s the right time to say it. In a world obsessed with volume, Solomon honors restraint. Wisdom isn’t loud. It’s measured.
“He who holds back his words has knowledge, And he who has a cool spirit is a man of discernment.” — Proverbs 17:27, LSB
Proverbs 17 is filled with insight about relationships—how to avoid strife, how to handle offense, and how to speak wisely.
And verse 27 stands out like a neon sign in our age of noise: holding back your words is a sign of knowledge. That’s upside-down wisdom. Culture says “speak your truth.” Scripture says “know when to be quiet.”
Jesus modeled this. He remained silent before Pilate. He asked more questions than He gave answers. He knew that wisdom isn’t about winning arguments—it’s about revealing truth in the right moment.
Sometimes the wisest person in the room is the one who listens most.
When are you most tempted to talk too much—or too fast?
- Practice intentional silence once today—especially in conflict.
- Reflect: did you gain or lose influence by staying quiet?
- Ask God to make your words wise and your spirit cool.
Wisdom knows when to speak—and when to wait. That’s a core theme in Walking with God, where we learn to lead, listen, and live with discernment. Keep walking with us.
Closing Prayer
God, quiet my heart so I don’t rush my mouth. Teach me to speak with wisdom—and hold back with love.
