I Choose Today: Wisdom in the Pause

A few days ago, I was listening to a friend retell about a situation she had at work. It was a conversation she was having with a coworker and it had all the makings of a coming conflict. When she made the statement, “I paused before I responded,” it was like the Holy Spirit said to me, “there is wisdom in the pause.”

Think about it, today’s society tends to speak hastily, causing conflict and wreaking havoc in the workplace, public, churches, and families. We speak hastily from our own understanding and wisdom, as well as throwing in some of our own hangups and anxieties.

King Solomon, the wisest person to ever live outside of Jesus, knew this principle all to well when he warns us,

“Do you see a [conceited] man who speaks quickly [hastily] [offering his opinions or answering without thinking]? There is more hope for a [thickheaded] fool than for him.” Proverbs‬ ‭29‬:‭20‬ ‭AMP‬‬ (emphasis added)

Basically he is saying it is better to be someone who is silly or stupid; a person who lacks judgement and sense, than to be a person who speaks hastily. We have all been guilty of it, haven’t we?  Giving our opinions and speaking without thinking? Where is the wisdom in that?

Now, the flip side of being a hasty talker, is to pause and allow the Lord’s wisdom room to prevail. King Solomon gives us the key to handling such situations wisely when he said,

“For the Lord grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Proverbs‬ ‭2‬:‭6‬ ‭NLT‬‬

In other words, we can think our ways and words are right, but it is the Lord who is truly wise. He will give us the right words to say at the right time if we pause and seek His wisdom.

So the next time we are tempted to hastily give our opinions and wisdom, which may cause conflict and be divisive, let us use the wisdom in the pause to allow the true wisdom of God to shine through.

But how can we practically implement this in our daily lives? Here are a few simple steps:

1. Breathe Before You Speak:

When you feel the urge to respond quickly, take a deep breath. This brief moment can help you gather your thoughts and center your heart on God’s wisdom rather than your own.

2. Pray for Guidance:

Even a short, silent prayer like, ‘Lord, give me Your words,’ can make a huge difference. This act of pausing to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance invites the Lord’s wisdom into the conversation.

3. Reflect on Scripture:

Keep a verse like Proverbs 2:6 in mind. When you’re in a tense conversation, silently remind yourself that true wisdom comes from God, and ask Him to guide your words.

4. Delay Your Response:

If possible, take a few minutes—or even longer—before responding. This could mean stepping away from a heated discussion or simply giving yourself permission to think before you reply. This pause can prevent hasty words and allow the Holy Spirit to lead your response.

Today, I encourage you to practice the wisdom in the pause. The next time you’re faced with a situation where you’re tempted to speak quickly, take a moment to pause and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Ask Him to fill your words with His wisdom and grace. You might be surprised at the peace and clarity that comes when you allow God to lead the conversation. Let’s choose to speak words that build up, not tear down, by embracing the wisdom found in the pause.