Life is full of moments that cautiousness becomes more than just a thought. Or at least it should.

Often we associate cautiousness with an interest to our own safety. It is our own senses that help us to realize potential danger. But God has given us more than just physical senses. He has also given us spiritual and emotional senses. All three are not only provided for our own well-being, but also for the care for others.

Cautiousness is taking the time to discern the attitudes and actions of those around and then choosing the best time to speak.

Proverbs 15:23 A man hath joy by the answer of his mouth: and a word spoken in due season, how good is it!

Many potential problems and dangers can often be avoided by carefully and thoughtfully speaking and acting at the correct time. This means that at times instead of letting our emotions take over, we need to patiently wait. Wait until your emotions calm down, wait for to situation to de-escalate,  or maybe simply wait for God’s guidance in that area.

You don’t want to be rash or let your emotions take control, because that is when the results often end with terrible ramifications, results, or consequences.

James 1:19 Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath:

When
we react instead of wait, we usually aren’t the only one’s that get hurt. God wants to help us to know when it is the right time to act or speak. He gives us WISDOM to process the information around us and to make the correct and sometimes courageous decision.

So how do we develop cautiousness?

1. Rest in the Lord. Psalm 37:7
2. Wait patiently for Him. Psalm 37:7
3. Fret not about others success. Psalm 37:7
4. Keep His way. Psalm 37:34
5. Be aware of what you say to others. (Once someone is offended, it is harder to be won back.) Hebrews 3:13
6. Keep your heart focused on God and his truth. Matthew 13:22-23
7. Encourage and uplift each other daily. Matthew 13:23
8. Grow in confidence of your faith. Matthew 13:23
9. Read God’s Word. Matthew 13:23
10. Watch for temptation. Mark 14:38
11. Pray for God’s guidance. Mark 14:38
12. Look and learn from Biblical examples. 1 Corinthians 10:11
13. Remember God’s promises. 1 Corinthians 10:13
14. Grow in Grace and the knowledge of God. 2 Peter 3:18
15. Be aware of false teachers. Luke 21:8
16. Be cautious of others spoiling you unto deceit. Colossians 2:8
17. Search the Scriptures. Acts 17:11
18. Serve and love your neighbor. Galatians 5:13-14
19. Walk in the Spirit. Galatians 5:16
20. Don’t let the flesh control you. Galatians 5:16

I know that this seems like a long list. But practicing these things will help us think about the consequences that may come if we are not prepared. It shows us that we can wait until we are in the correct spirit, under control, emotions in check, and God is by our side. Cautiousness is not a weakness, it is a strength that shows wisdom and care for others, not just for yourself. Let’s start practicing it today.