Redeeming "Prude"
Redeeming “Prude”
The Wisdom of Less Words
When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Proverbs 10:19
We’ve made it a goal in our men’s Bible study on Thursday mornings to redeem the word “prude.” A prude is typically understood as someone who can’t take a joke, or can’t handle something that pushes the envelope, particularly things of a sexual nature. But prudence is something the Bible encourages. Being prudent is something the Bible honors. A prude, according to the original definition: someone who is cautious and careful in how they approach delicate or dangerous situations, is a reflection of the gospel.
How? A prude is one who is careful and deliberate with words and actions. Words don’t automatically roll off the tongue without forethought and care. Actions aren’t impulsive and I’ll do as I please in nature. The gospel is reflected in prudence because God has shown us the weight of our words and actions. We know what we have said, as Isaiah experienced in Isaiah 6:5, has come from unclean lips. We know what we have done and left undone requires God’s mercy and forgiveness (Luke 18:13).
So what does that have to do with silence and using less words? What are many words often for? To prove ourselves, whether it be proving ourselves to be smarter than, wittier than, better than, has an underlying need to justify ourselves as worthwhile or valuable. Because the gospel of Jesus says there is no need to look beyond the cross to see our worth and value, our need to justify ourselves with our words decreases. Less qualifications like “this is just my opinion but…” Less oath making like “I swear what I’m telling you is the God-honest truth…”.
Jesus’ ministry, in terms of word count in the gospels, diminished the closer he was to death. He wasn’t preaching with his mouth the sermon on the mount as he hung on the cross. He was prudent with his words to say things like “I’m thirsty” or “it is finished.” These were carefully chosen, minimal words. As we continue through this Lenten season, may the Lord do His work in putting to death “many words” and by His grace, let our words be few so as to reflect our worth to Christ and more the power of His Word, and less ours.
Father, may the cross of Jesus Christ leave us speechless, so that when we do speak every word is seasoned with your mercy and grace. Amen.
Thoughts for Reflection
Where, or with whom, might you find yourself using many words?
Why do you think that is?
Considering asking the Father to do His Spirit's work in "guarding" your tongue.