Word in Edgewise

As I'm reading the Britta Lafont study called, Prodigal Confessions, I'm reminded of so many times in my life that had I not opened my mouth to defend myself, excuse my behavior, and the like, I would have allowed space in the conversation for Jesus to get a "word in edgewise." See the excerpts below:

"My real problem was, that the One Who hurt me the most was God. He didn't meet my expectations. I wanted rescue. He gave me the Refiner's Fire. I wanted the feeling of security from love here on earth. He gave me instability and difficulties to drive me to a more dependable love…His." Then she goes on to make a point about the story of Mary and Martha from a pastor's sermon she once heard. He asked the congregation, "What did Mary say?" "…she was quiet. Mary did not defend herself when she was rebuked…scolded, criticized--called out--in front of a room full of men…" 

She goes on to write, "because Mary was quiet, Jesus spoke for her. How many times do we jump to our own defense? How often are we offended by a 'look'? A 'tone'? Some seemingly imperceptible slight? And when our anger is ignited, our heart is engulfed in flames. Whether we lash out directly or seethe inwardly, our God-given peace is incinerated by a wildfire of…hurt pride."

Matthew 10:34 Jesus said:

34 “Do not think that I have come to bring peace to the earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword."