When Is the Right Time to Speak? - Conclusion of WHEN TO SPEAK

Abigail was the wife of wealthy landowner Nabal. When David and his men were running away from King Saul, they spent some time with Nabal's shepherd and protected Nabal's flocks from marauder bands.  Was Nabal grateful for their help? No. When asked by David to provide his men with a little food and water, Nabal got angry and screamed abuses at them.  (1 Samuel 25:5-8, 10-12, 14) As a result, David was  determined to kill every man in Nabal's household. (1 Samuel 25:13, 22)  How could such a disaster be avoided? Abigail realized that it was time to speak, so she courageously went to meet the  400 hungry, angry armed men and spoke to David. 

 When Abigail met David, she spoke courageously, respectfully, and persuasively.  Even though Abigail was not blame for the bad situation, she apologized to David. She appealed to his good qualities and relied on Jehovah to help her. (1 Samuel 25:24, 26, 28, 33, 34)  Like Abigail, we need to have the courage to speak up if we can see someone heading down  dangerous path.  (Psalm 141:5) We must be respectful, but we must also be bold.  When we lovingly offer a person necessary counsel, we prove that we are a true friend. - PROVERBS 27:17.

Elders in particular must have the courage to speak to those in the congregation who take a false step.  (Galatians 6:1)  Elders humbly realize that they too are imperfect and may one day need counsel. But elders do not let that hold them back from reproving those who need discipline.  (2 Timothy 4:2; Titus 1:9) When counseling a person, they try to use their gift of speech to teach him skillfully and patiently.  They love their brothers, and that love moves them to action. (Proverbs 13:24) But their primary concern  is to honor Jehovah by upholding his standards and protecting the congregation from harm. - ACTS 20:28.

Up to this point, we have considered when to speak up. However, there are times when it is best for us to say nothing at all.  What challenges might we face in those situations?

Next time: When Is the Right Time to Speak? - WHEN SHOULD WE BE SILENT?

From the jw.org publications