This seems to be Jesus telling us that our talk is not going to change people’s thoughts or lives. We must live our lives as Jesus did, but we must remember that not all people will be ready for the message and some will reject it and be negative towards us. All we can do is follow what Jesus has shown us and be a light, and when people are willing to see the light it will be there for them because if they are not ready our words may cause division.
Proverbs chapter 23 verse 9 says, “Don’t waste your breath on fools, for they will despise the wisest advice.” This reminds me of my adult life before Christ. When I was in my 20’s and early 30’s I would befriend anyone but if they said anything about church or Jesus I would say something rude and make jokes about religion. I still remember emailing a person who sent out a daily devotion at school. I got it once and emailed him to please not waste my time with his garbage. It is so important to share but it is more important to shine our light and let the Holy Spirit in us lead our way.
When we just live we don’t condemn people we are just helpful, loving and caring but when we try and talk we become judgmental and preachy and it turns people off. As we mature in our walk the right amount of talking and sharing combine to be the perfect watering tool for God to make it grow. Look what Paul shares in 1 Corinthians chapter 2 verse 14, “But people who aren’t spiritual can’t receive these truths from God’s Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can’t understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means.”
We must be careful to be aware at all times so we are a good example not a stumbling block for people that don’t know Jesus yet. Amen