Do not revile the king even in your thoughts, or curse the rich in your bedroom, because a bird of the air may carry your words, and a bird on the wing may report what you say. 

Ecclesiastes 10:20

My Grandmother had a funny way with words in order to get her point across. Some of her favorite sayings were: “This is how the cow ate the corn”, as she grabbed your knee to get your attention, “Well, shoot a monkey,” when things did not go her way, and “A little bird told me,” when she was curious about something she had heard. 

I always thought her way with words was creative and amusing. It was not until I read Ecclesiastes that I realized this play on words about a bird telling you a message was actually a warning from Solomon. 

Solomon was a wise king and he understood the power of negative thoughts and spiteful words spoken in secret. He specifically asked God for wisdom and a discerning heart while governing his people because he knew the hearts of men. 

God was pleased with Solomon’s request and told him, “Since you have asked for this (a discerning heart) and not for long life or wealth for yourself, nor have you asked for the death of your enemies but for a discernment in administering justice, I will do what you have asked. I will give you a wise and discerning heart, so that there will never have been anyone like you, nor will there ever be. Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for - both health and honor - so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings” (1 King 3:10-13). 

Here is a challenge: May the things we ponder in our minds or speak about in private be pleasing to the Lord. Seek out the Holy Spirit when you find yourself in a tempting situation to speak negatively toward someone. Remember Solomon’s warning. 

Charity O