Lines of Wisdom

“Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” — Psalm 139:23–24 (NIV)

I came across a quote labeled “Japanese Wisdom” while scrolling through social media. It caught my attention—not because I could verify its origin, but because its simplicity carried weight. Whether or not this quote is authentically Japanese, the message resonates deeply with biblical teachings about integrity, truth, and humility.

“If it’s not yours, don’t take it. 

If it’s not right, don’t do it. 

If it’s not true, don’t say it. 

If you don’t know, be quiet.”

These lines aren’t just moral reminders—they’re invitations to pause, reflect, and live with a heart aligned to God’s wisdom.

“If it’s not yours, don’t take it.” Scripture speaks clearly: “You shall not steal” (Exodus 20:15). But beyond the commandment lies a deeper truth—“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it” (Psalm 24:1). What we possess is not truly ours; it’s entrusted to us. This line reminds us that we are stewards, not owners. Respecting boundaries—whether material, emotional, or relational—is a way of honoring both God and neighbor.

“If it’s not right, don’t do it.” Micah 6:8 calls us to “Act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Romans 12:9 echoes this: “Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” Doing what’s right isn’t always easy, especially when it costs us comfort or approval. But Scripture invites us to moral courage—not rooted in pride, but in love and humility. This line challenges us to act with integrity, even when no one is watching.

“If it’s not true, don’t say it.” Words matter. “Put off falsehood and speak truthfully to your neighbor” (Ephesians 4:25). “The Lord detests lying lips, but delights in people who are trustworthy” (Proverbs 12:22). Truth-telling isn’t just about avoiding lies—it’s about building trust, reflecting God’s character, and choosing speech that heals rather than harms. In a world of spin and speculation, this line calls us back to honesty and clarity.

“If you don’t know, be quiet.”  James 1:19 offers wise counsel: “Be quick to listen, slow to speak.” And Proverbs 17:28 reminds us, “Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent.” Silence can be a spiritual discipline. In a culture that prizes instant opinions and constant commentary, restraint is a form of wisdom. Of course, silence is not always the faithful response—especially in the face of injustice or harm. Discernment means knowing when to speak and when to listen, when to challenge and when to wait. This line invites us to humility—to speak only when we can speak truth, and to listen when we cannot.

These four lines—simple as they are—carry weight. They ask something of us. Not perfection, but attention. Not shame, but sincerity. They invite us to sit with their wisdom and ask ourselves:

• Where in my life do I need to return, release, or make right?

• Am I speaking truth—or just speaking?

• What would it look like to practice holy silence today?

• How might these four lines guide my decisions this week?

Wisdom doesn’t always come in long sermons or complex theology. Sometimes it arrives in four simple lines that echo the heart of Scripture. Let these words be our compass today—not as burdens, but as blessings. And let Psalm 139 be our prayer.

Lord, search my heart. Teach me to walk in integrity, to speak only what builds up, and to act with justice and love. Help me to be quiet when I don’t know, and bold when I do. Give me courage to speak when silence would harm, and humility to listen when words would wound. May my life reflect Your wisdom in every small choice. Amen.

Peace & Grace,

Pastor Tim

Note: I’ll be pausing devotions from August 20-22. During this time, I invite you to revisit past reflections and spend time in Scripture, trusting that God’s faithfulness meets us anew each day.