How will you use your tongue?

John Wesley is quoted as having said, "My talent is to speak my mind. God won't object if you bury that talent." I can think of many occasions when these words make a lot of sense. Abraham Lincoln had a similar thought, "It is better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to open one's mouth and remove all doubt."  These quotes stand out to me because I am a seminary student and it seems everyone has an opinion they are dieing to share with everyone who will listen and occasionally even those who won't. Too many seminary students, and I confess I have been guilty of this as well, think speaking their mind is what pastors are supposed to do. I am not so sure.
This morning I am reading Psalm 39. David explains he has tried to guard what he says to keep himself from sinning. Specifically, David keeps silent around people who are sinning. However, then the text says there was a burning within David to speak. The psalm does not tell us what David felt compelled to say, or whom he felt compelled to correct. This psalm is about something else. In verses seven and eight David says, "O Lord, for what do I wait? My hope is in you. Deliver me from all my transgressions. Do not make me the scorn of the fool." Now we have a new problem. Too many Christians are afraid to share what they know about God because they are afraid they do not know enough when people begin to ask questions. These Christians do not want to look like a fool, and really; who does - but here's the catch. I am not a great spots caster, but if I see the University of Alabama walk all over Auburn you can bet I'm going to tell everyone I meet. I am not an esteemed movie critic, but if I see a movie I like I am going to share it with people. Why is it not the same for the love of God. Christians do not have to be great theologians to share the love of Christ with a neighbor, a coworker or a stranger. While some will question and want deeper answers it is okay to say, "I don't know," but do not let yourselves be troubled any more than you would about telling someone about the person who helped you with a flat tire on the side of the road. Sincerely sharing what God has done in our lives with others is at the heart of the Great Commission. Just honestly share what you know, and let your hope be in God that He will take care of the rest.