“A SPONGE and A LEAKY TAP..!!”

Let’s read Psalm 19:14 & Proverbs 25:28 in tandem

“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.............Like a city whose walls are broken through is a person who lacks self-control.”

The primary property of a SPONGE is to absorb and store, till it is fully soaked. A LEAKY TAP on the other hand is a constant annoyance (irritation). You can either be a SPONGE or a LEAKY TAP, not both at the same time.

A classic example of this contrast can be seen between Jesus and the Pharisees (religious leaders of Jesus’ time). 

The Pharisees had the knowledge of the Law of God, but were devoid of divine wisdom, understanding and much needed obedience. Jesus himself certified their knowledge of the Law as valid but boldly criticized their actions/deeds (read Matthew 23:2, 3). The Pharisees were also very careless in their speech. They even called Jesus - "the prince of demons" (read Matthew 12:24). Lack of divine wisdom and understanding caused them to have such verbal diarrhea (habit of talking meaninglessly).

Jesus, on the other hand was placed at the other end of the spectrum. He was in no hurry to correct or instruct others. He soaked-in responsibility, divine wisdom, patience, meekness, love, mercy, compassion and pureness in heart for almost 90% of His life. After which He began His ministry when He was about 30 years old (Luke 3:23-38). And before He even start His illustrious ministry, a voice from heaven said “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased...!”(Matthew 3:17)

Don’t be a LEAKY TAP, always judging others without wisdom and dripping odorous self-righteousness.  

Be a SPONGE, always being quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry (read James 1:19-20). Wait on the Lord to strengthen and equip you with His righteousness.

“Don’t leak JUDGEMENT...... Absorb EMPOWERMENT...!”