30 DAYS TO TAMING YOUR TONGUE DAY 15

DAY 15 THE KNOW-IT-ALL TONGUE

Are you so all knowing that you cannot refrain from giving unsolicited input? Do you regularly uses expressions “You should…?} Most emotionally healthy people will resent someone who always assumes he knows what is best for them. Even if you feel you have earned the right to given the unsolicited advice, use cautions. “Have you considered..?” sounds a lot less controlling and will be more welcomed-especially by men-than “You should….”

Even if you have knowledge and insight into certain situations, sometimes it’s prudent to keep silent and give another the joy and fulfillment of explaining it to you. “Wise people don’t make a show of the knowledge..” PROVERBS 12:23

Assuming the role of the arrogant expert on almost every topic is a sure indication of PRIDE, which is repulsive behavior to God and man.

So to change your behavior, start by letting someone share information with you that you already know-WITHOUT letting them know that you know it. This can be great training in humility and emotional maturity,

Even if you are brilliant but humble, your mere presence may cause those with low self-esteem to feel inferior. Certainly, then, displaying intellectual superiority will alienate others. Some people may look for areas of weakness to “Cut you down to size”.

If you tend to be a know-it-all, maybe you need to do a little honest introspection, Is your display of knowledge a smoke screen for insecurity? Are you craving attention or appreciated because you are not getting it from the source you desire? When interacting with a group, you might want to actively listen to others, ask or their ideas, resist correcting or contradicting anybody, and limit you input to only one or two points. Your interpersonal relationships will improve when people feel that interacting with you has been a mutual sharing of ideas,

While God desires for us to have many of His attributes, omniscience is NOT one of them. He is the only one who knows everything. Further, the Scriptures are replete with many reminders that all wisdom and knowledge comes from Him. “He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the discerning” DANIEL 2:21

READINGS AND REFLECTIONS

PROVERBS 12:23  PROVERBS 15:32  1 CORINTHIANS 8:1-3

PROVERBS 29:23

1)               Read Proverbs 13:18 and highlight it in your Bible. What two consequences are listed for those who refuse to accept instruction?

2)              Become conscious of your “know-it-all” lingo as you interact with others. Note that number of times you are tempted to use phrases such as “What you don’t understand is that..” “I know that” “What you should do is” Avoid these expressions whenever possible.

3)              See how many times today you can ask for and listen for input from others. Be genuine in your interest. Make a note for each instance.

4)              If you must deal with a know-it-all, remember the following:

a.    They be right most of the time, so don’t directly challenge his knowledge.

b.   Get your facts straight or he will dismiss you as incompetent

c.    Don’t interrupt-a know-it-all is usually a control freak.

d.   Disagree wisely by simply paraphrasing his statement and asking for clarification.

e.   Don’t be intimidated to keeping quiet-unless you are not prepared with the facts.