Simplicity of Speech
What two words would others use to describe the words you speak? Helpful but plentiful? Witty but self-focused? What adjectives would you like for people to use to describe your speech? Peaceful and supportive? Truthful and insightful? It was said of Quaker founder George Fox that “the fewness and fullness of his words have often struck even strangers with admiration.” William Penn went on to talk about how Fox was “no busybody” and “it was a pleasure to be in his company.” Not only did Fox speak little, but when he spoke, his carefully-chosen words welled up from his single-focused heart, creating a clear and compelling effect. It was obvious to others he treasured both God and them.
Speaking concisely can be powerful. Saying fewer words that have a deep fullness comes from a heart that has examined and distilled its motives and given up using words to push oneself forward or win over others. My journey in this less-is-more approach helped me see that I had used words to convince colleagues to do what I wanted them to do and to impress friends with what I knew. I realized that my wordiness revealed my lack of trust that God would work unless I pushed.
I have found that simplicity and gentleness of speech—using fewer words and speaking slowly—makes my words “impart grace to hearers” more easily (Ephesians 4:29, NKJV). Speaking in this succinct straightforward manner develops patience in me as I willingly limit my verbal efforts and rely on the Lord to shepherd me in each situation. To my surprise, people seem to hear me better!
In our culture’s great emphasis on communication, talking has its limits. It doesn’t build connection with others if our only goal is to express ourselves instead of creating space for God’s grace to flow from ourselves to others. If we feel we have to convince relatives, friends and co-workers in order to get our point across (using capital letters and emoticons in email), we’re losing sight that God can provide the security we need without our going into overdrive. When we feel overlooked or slighted, we’re especially tempted to exaggerate or “overspeak” (saying that I love something when I only like it). Jesus’ instruction sounds so radical to a world that routinely communicates in bold print: “Simply let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37).
Richard Rohr said it well: “Faith does not need to push the river because faith is able to trust that there is a river. It is flowing. We are in it.” Rohr then described river as the Spirit of Christ: “‘Out of the believer’s heart shall flow rivers of living water.’ Now [Jesus] said this about the Spirit, which believers in him were to receive” (John 7:37-39). I want my speech to come from that right heart, expressed in a helpful, concise way so that others glad I’m in the room. (Adapted from chapter 4 of Abundant Simplicity).
Grace and peace,
Jan
©Jan Johnson
