Devotions

When William Gladstone was (England's) Chancellor of the Exchequer, he once requested that the Treasury send hm certain statistics upon which he might base his budget proposals. The statistician made a mistake. But Gladstone was so certain of this man's concern for accuracy that he didn't take the time to verify the figures. As a result, he went before the House of Commons and made a speech based upon the incorrect figures given him. His speech was no sooner published than the inaccuracies were exposed and Gladstone became the brunt of public ridicule.

The Chancellor sent for the statistician who had given him the erroneous information. The man arrived full of fear and shame, certain that he was going to be let go. Instead, Gladstone said, "I know how much you must be disturbed over what has happened, and I have sent for you to put you at your ease. For a long time you have been engaged in handling the intricacies of the national accounts, and this is the first mistake that you have made. I want to congratulate you, and express to you my keen appreciation."

It takes a big person to extend mercy . . . a big person to listen rather than talk . . . a big person to think before jumping into action. Remember, a shut mouth gathers no foot.


Scripture: "He who guards his mouth preserves his life, but he who opens wide his lips shall have destruction."  Proverbs 13:3