There is an old saying that states, "Better to remain silent and thought a fool than to speak and remove all doubt" (see here along with its derivatives). Also see Job 13:5; Proverbs 10:14; 11:12; 13:3; 17:28.With the above quote and scripture references in mind, this informative 5+ minute YouTube video, provides us with five advantages of being silent:
1) We appear more powerful --- Powerful people impress and intimidate by saying less (note King Louis the 14th).
2) We will learn to read people --- When we are silent, we will often be listening and observing others. This is an excellent way to spot liars and see through people's true intentions because they might slip up trying to fill the silence. When silent, we also have the opportunity to read someone's body language and see if it matches the words they are saying.
3) Once our words are out, we can't take them back --- Never say anything we will later regret. Silence is a great way to help manage self-control. We need to hold our tongue, be calm, and respectfully hold our ground during intimidating circumstances.
4) In being silent, we will be considered a great listener and people will love talking to us --- Note the story from Dale Carnegie's book, "How To Win Friends and Influence People." People want to be heard and understood. By being silent and listening, we will make the other person feel good as they are speaking (be a good sounding board!).
5) Silence is a great negotiation tool --- If we can be comfortable with being silent, we will have the upper hand in negotiating. Our being silent will appear as though the other party needs us more than we need them.We can also use the period of silence to plan out what we want to say next.
The "silence is golden" sentiment is a much needed quality in today's noisy society. The Psalmist saw the wisdom and power of silence in Psalm 62:1-8, because in silent reverence, God's message can be heard (see here).
---Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets
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