Watchful Then

DEVOTION
PROVERBS
WATCHFUL THEN

Prov 10:18
18 He who conceals his hatred has lying lips,
and whoever spreads slander is a fool.
NIV
It seems two vices are revealed here instead of a contrasting pair of good and evil so perhaps God desires to make a big point here. I am not sure which is worst, though I am inclined to the first. I think it is an awful thing to conceal any hatred within my heart, but to have it, hide it, but say nice things to that recipient of my hatred would really be hideous. How evil could a person be to do such a thing? First off it is inconceivable as a believer I could actually have any hatred for anyone. But could I have feelings that do not love, not filled with love, toward someone yet I smile, shake hands and act as if I am pleased to be in there presence? What if I have felt offended by another and have not resolved it, but still smile, shake hands and pretend all is right? I think there is far more at risk in this concealing thing than being a big blabber mouth. Although slander is never a good deed, not ever and I will not have a part in that. Yet, I think how easy it is to talk about other people when they are not around. I don’t really have to actually say anything nasty about them, but just something negative will do. Then maybe I don’t even have to say anything at all, but just kept silent when someone I am with makes some disparaging remark about a mutual acquaintance. I think in my silence I have helped spread slander and thus have become a fool. Well if it is the truth about that person then it is not slander, but only gossip, and surely that is alright. Not! I think I must be very careful and extremely aware of by heart or mind first, then my tongue. Watchful is the key word for me here. I cannot afford to be either of these characters, for I think it is far too easy to simply slip into that part of the play. Watchful then.