Do You Speak to Be Heard or Understood?

“Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.” – Proverbs 18:2 (NIV)

We live in a time where noise often dominates the space. Social media favors the loudest voice. Platforms value quick opinions over thoughtful reflection. But Proverbs 18:2 reminds us of something profoundly sobering: being heard doesn’t equate to being helpful.

This verse isn’t just about how loud we are—it’s about the attitude of our hearts.

“Fools find no pleasure in understanding but delight in airing their own opinions.”

Some people speak before they seek. They share before they sit with the truth. They mistake reaction for wisdom. And sadly, many confuse their need to be loud with a right to be right.

But wisdom listens. It takes a moment. It asks questions and doesn’t always insist on having the final say.

There are times when I’ve filled silence with my own noise—my opinions, my frustration, my assumptions—because silence felt like weakness. But silence isn’t weakness when it’s used for reflection. Stillness isn’t passivity when it leads to wisdom.

Let me be clear: confidence isn’t a sin. But confidence without advice, boldness without humility, and noise without knowledge can make even a well-meaning person look foolish.

Volume doesn’t equal value.
You can be loud and still be wrong.
You can be quiet and still be right.
You can hold the truth and still choose humility.

God’s wisdom doesn’t shout to prove a point. It speaks life. It builds. It restores.

So before we hit “send,” share that rant, or take over the conversation, let’s ask ourselves:
Am I speaking to understand or just to be heard?

Because being loud doesn’t make you wise. But seeking wisdom? That always makes you worth listening to.

Pastor Harold Robertson, Jr.

District Elder & Pastor Harold Robertson, Jr. is a seasoned IT Professional and spiritual leader who bridges technology and faith to drive innovation in schools, churches, and communities. With certifications in ITIL, Google Workspace, AI, and church administration, he empowers organizations to thrive through strategic tech integration and leadership.

Pastor Harold Robertson, Jr.

District Elder & Pastor Harold Robertson, Jr. is a seasoned IT Professional and spiritual leader who bridges technology and faith to drive innovation in schools, churches, and communities. With certifications in ITIL, Google Workspace, AI, and church administration, he empowers organizations to thrive through strategic tech integration and leadership.