Sometimes, God gives me a clear solution to someone’s problem. I see the path forward, and it seems so obvious to me. They may be tied up in frustration, confusion, and stress, and I have the answer. In these moments, I often feel like I’m supposed to speak up and offer a solution.
However, the challenge I face is that I don’t always wait for people to ask for help or advice. I can be quick to offer my thoughts, even when they haven’t asked.
I might say something like, “Why don’t you just do X? If you follow this plan for a year, things will get better.”
Or, “If you set boundaries with your child, you won’t feel so overwhelmed.”
While I truly believe God gives us wisdom, and that there are times when we are called to help others with counsel, I’ve recently felt God calling me to pause. Instead of immediately offering my solution, God is nudging me to wait, to listen, and to pray.
The Call to Humility and Listening
One of the reasons God has been prompting me to be quiet is the delivery of my words. I sometimes hear myself speaking, and I realize there’s a tone of superiority, even if that’s not my intention. I can hear in my own words the echo of pride, and I know that’s not of God. His Word calls us to speak with love and humility, not with arrogance.
Recognizing When My Words Aren’t Received
Another reason God has called me to hold back is because my words are not always received. Whether it’s because I come across as too forceful, or because the person is simply not ready to hear what I have to say, I’ve realized that my timing is just as important as the advice I offer. Sometimes, people need space to work through their own thoughts and emotions, and they may not be looking for answers, but rather for understanding, comfort, or prayer.
In these moments, I’ve learned to trust that God knows what’s best. He’s calling me to pray for the person instead of rushing to offer a solution. I don’t always have the right answer, but God does. I may feel the urgency to fix things, especially for my family or close friends, but I’m learning that it’s better to let God guide them in His own timing and His own way.
Learning Through Experience
I’ve come to realize that some lessons are best learned through experience. Even though my mom, a woman of great wisdom, has always had counsel for me, there were times when I didn’t listen to her. I had to walk through challenges and obstacles on my own, and those experiences, although difficult, taught me lessons that God embedded in my heart. They shaped me, and I became wiser for it.
Perhaps you can relate. Maybe you find yourself with advice for your spouse, your children, your friends, or your coworkers. You have ideas that make perfect sense, and you want to share them to help others. But there are times when people don’t need your advice; they need a safe place to talk, to share their struggles, and to process their emotions. They don’t need fixing; they need to be heard.
A Scriptural Reminder
Proverbs 18:2 says, “A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.” This verse is a gentle reminder that we should take joy in listening, understanding, and supporting others, rather than simply offering our own perspective.
A Challenge to Reflect On
Here’s a challenge for you: The next time someone shares a problem or a struggle with you, instead of rushing to offer a solution, take a moment to listen. Ask God to guide you, to show you when to speak and when to pray. Trust that He knows the right answer, even if you don’t have it.
Let’s strive to be people who speak with wisdom, humility, and compassion, knowing when to share and when to simply be a prayerful presence in someone’s life.
Challenge:This week, ask God to help you discern when to speak and when to remain silent. Pray for those who are struggling, asking God to provide them with the wisdom and guidance they need. Trust in His timing and His plan.
Scripture:Proverbs 18:2 – “A fool finds no pleasure in understanding but delights in airing his own opinions.”
Hi, my name is Kacie Starr Long. I am an author, and speaker and I love to use my voice to point people to Jesus. When I'm not writing, I'm either hanging out with my husband or sewing. God delivered me from food addiction and I have a sewing ministry, called the Sew Hope Community Sewing Room. I am the proud wife of Alfred T. Long, Sr and together we lead a non-profit that serves prisoners and their families. Connect with me at www.InspiredOverflow.com and via my YouTube page for Christian teachings and encouragement.
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