Keeping Silent at the Right Time

Proverbs 17:28 — “Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding.”

There is wisdom in knowing when not to speak. Proverbs observes that even a fool appears wise when he keeps silent. Silence, at the right time, can prevent embarrassment, defuse conflict, and demonstrate humility.

In a culture that values constant opinions, silence is countercultural. But not every thought must be expressed, and not every moment calls for words. Wisdom discerns when to speak and when to hold back, choosing words carefully rather than carelessly.

Silence is especially powerful in times of anger. Many words spoken in haste have caused irreparable harm, while silence gives time for emotions to cool and perspective to return. To refrain from speaking in such moments is not weakness but strength.

Silence can also be an act of trust in God. When falsely accused, Jesus stood silent before His accusers, entrusting Himself to the Father. His restraint demonstrated wisdom and dignity that words could not.

The wise are not known for endless speech but for thoughtful words. Sometimes the wisest thing to say is nothing at all. Let us learn the discipline of silence, using our words sparingly and with care.