When Is the Right Time to Speak?

"There is  . . . a  time to be silent and a time to speak. -ECCLESIASTES 3:1, 7. 


SOME of us like to talk a lot. Others like to be quiet.  As the theme text of this article points out,  there is both a time to speak and a time to be silent.  (Read Ecclesiastes 3:1, 7)   Still, we may wish that some of our brothers and sisters would talk more. And we may want to to talk less.

Speech is a gift from Jehovah. (Exodus 4:10, 11; Revelation 4:11)  In his Word, he helps us to understand how to use that gift properly.  In this article, we will consider Scriptural examples that will help us know when to speak and when to be silent. We will also see how Jehovah feels about what we say to others. First, let us consider when we should speak.

WHEN SHOULD WE SPEAK?

We should always be ready to speak about Jehovah and the Kingdom.  (Matthew 24:14; Romans 10:14)   In so doing, we imitate Jesus. One of the main reasons why Jesus came to earth was to tell others about the truth about his Father. (John 18:37) But we must remember that how we speak is also important. So when talking to others about Jehovah, we must do so with "a mild temper and deep respect," and we should show consideration for the other person's feelings and beliefs.  ( 1 Peter 3:15)  Then we will do more than just talk; we will teach and possibly reach the person's heart. 

Next time: When Is the Right Time to Speak? - WHEN TO SPEAK

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