Think Before You Speak

I have to admit to being offended by this verse. So much so, that I found myself reading it over and over again. In doing so, I realized that my challenge with it was because I was taking it literally.

How often do we do just that? We place our own meaning to what we are hearing. We might also infer tone when there was none. And then, we react. In reading today’s verse, I admit to having done just that.

“Choose your words carefully.” “Look before you leap.” “Think before you speak.” There are likely a number of other similar old adages out there espousing the same sage and relevant advice. Applying it means taking a step back. Read the entire chapter, if not the whole book of Colossians, and do so in the context of the bigger picture, including the time period in which it was written.

Since the book was written, much has changed for women in many parts of the world, but not in all. There are still countries in which it remains very much a patriarchal society, where women are considered to be of a lower class. There is still work to be done.

You give me the strength and courage to face that which I do not agree with. Thank you, Lord. Amen. — DR

Contributed by Think Before You Speak

I have to admit to being offended by this verse. So much so, that I found myself reading it over and over again. In doing so, I realized that my challenge with it was because I was taking it literally. How often do we do just that? We place our own meaning to what we are hearing. We might also infer tone when there was none. And then, we react. In reading today's verse, I admit to having done just that. "Choose your words carefully." "Look before you leap." "Think before you speak." There are likely a number of other similar old adages out there espousing the same sage and relevant advice. Applying it means taking a step back. Read the entire chapter, if not the whole book of Colossians, and do so in the context of the bigger picture, including the time period in which it was written. Since the book was written, much has changed for women in many parts of the world, but not in all. There are still countries in which it remains very much a patriarchal society, where women are considered to be of a lower class. There is still work to be done.
Eternity for Today