JanBeek

Press Mute!

Oh my, those are such important questions!
When I was in second grade, my teacher wrote on my report card,
“Janet must learn she can’t talk ALL the time!”

Contemplate Silence

While I was up in my sanctuary this morning, that subject of the mute button was raised by one of the writers of a devotional. I contemplated the importance of silence.

I was reminded of my mom’s frequent cautionary quote,

“It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool,
than to speak and remove all doubt.”

I’m sure that wasn’t invented by her!
But I attribute it to her.
And it is reinforced when I read in the Bible,

Proverbs 17:28

“Even a fool, when he keeps silent, is considered wise;
When he closes his lips, he is considered prudent.”

So, I pressed my mute button and sat in God’s presence without a word. Not easy for me… but I am cautioned often to practice the art of holding my tongue. And as I did so, this poem came to me:

Intention

Intention creates reality –
What do I intend to do today?
I set a goal to be loving
In everything I do and say.

Intention creates awareness –
I realize opportunities are near.
I want to do with grateful focus
The work that God has shown me here.

Intention creates commitment –
I’m determined to do His will.
But first I’ll read His Word and listen;
To hear His voice, I must be still.