Watch your words

“Not everything that can be said needs to be said”  I came across this phrase while skimming through a couple of articles. It lingered so long in my mind that I couldn’t help my self but think about what the writer meant.
Take for instance you’ve visited an ailing person and while conversing you realize that the person has given up on ever getting well. The physician may probably have numbered the remaining days that the patient has to live and all hope is gone.
You might be in agreement with the doctor’s report and may be having a strong urge to express your thoughts on the matter.
It however would be very heartless to tell the patient that he is going to die.
The logic thing to do is encourage the person telling him everything will be well. After all your hope is not unfounded. We believe in a mighty God who is able to do exceedingly, abundantly above all that we can ask for or even imagine. Encourage the person. You too might get encouraged in the process.
In another instance you might be involved in a heated argument. You have this pressing urge to speak your mind that is too strong to let you even think about what you are about to say and the implications it will have later on. I would advise you not to engage in verbal conflict because it does more harm than good. Initially you’ll have a feeling of confidence… you actually did have the guts to say whatever it is that was on your mind.. Then guilt kicks in.. “I shouldn’t have said that.. I shouldn’t have overreacted.. I should have thought about what I was saying…” and it goes on and on. But it might already be too late.