Abundant Simplicity ~ fewness of words

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As I began reading chapter 4 of Abundant Simplicity, I realized that though I am an introvert, I still say many things I shouldn’t say. I still struggle with control over my tongue. And simplicity of speech can be very freeing!

“I realized that my wordiness revealed a lack of trust that God would work without help from me.” Jan Johnson, chapter 4.

Ouch. That statement really, really got to me. I try to be helpful a lot, I think. I love sharing ideas I find (um, this blog!) and while I’m not the creative genius behind most of those ideas, I love to SHARE them. I love to find things that will truly help people. I love, LOVE it when people come back to me and tell me that something I shared was helpful to them.  {Who would have guessed my love language is acts of service??}

But. Wait a minute. This book challenges me to seek out WHY I desire to be helpful. Is it because I NEED to be helpful? Is it because it is something I need in me and not something I’m truly doing for others? I don’t know…but I’m pondering that. 🙂

Here’s another one that will get you…

“I’ve used words to make sure I’m noticed or well thought of.” 

Big fat ouch. Sometimes it is better to just.be.quiet. Not to feel the need to defend myself. Not to say something so that someone notices me at all. Trust God is at work and He doesn’t need you to help him out with your smooth words. 🙂

James chapter 1 reminds to be quick to listen and slow to speak. I am praying that God will retrain my brain to truly live those words out.

What about you?
Have you found any practical helps for  holding your tongue??

Here are a few verses that we might memorize to help in this effort:
Ephesians 4:29
James 1:19
Psalm 46:10
Matthew 12:34-35

“It is a wholesome act of humility to withhold the expression of our opinions.” Shirley Hughson