Have you ever done something that stupefied you? I do this on a fairly regular basis, and I’ve got a whopper to share with you today.

My husband was in the hospital recently for a planned procedure. I stayed into the evening with him, ran home to take care of dogs and get some rest, then was on the road first thing the next day to pick him up at discharge. I hadn’t slept well, so needed a shot of caffeine. I’m a Starbucks kind of girl, so I knew where I was stopping before heading to the hospital.

Of course, I thought of my husband on the way and called to ask if he wanted anything. After all, who doesn’t want Starbucks delivered, right? The thing is, my husband isn’t as much into the “fancy stuff” that Starbucks sells, so he asked for a plain old everyday coffee with cream and sugar. And that was where the trouble started.

My mind was in a strange place that morning. Again, I needed a boost to kick my brain into gear. (That’s my story and I’m sticking to it!) For some reason, when he said he wanted regular coffee, my mind said, “well I can get that at the hospital.” You’ll have to forgive me. I’m an accountant by training, which means I’m cheap—real cheap. Why pay the Starbucks price when you can get free coffee delivered to the room at the hospital?

Unfortunately, I took it to the next step and voiced my thoughts out loud. My husband’s response was “Never mind then.”

The closer I got to Starbucks, the clearer my thoughts became. It struck me what I’d done. I’d offered to buy my husband something while I was there, and then immediately dismissed what he wanted. How’s that for bait and switch?

I bought him a Starbucks coffee, as originally requested, then apologized for being so silly. It made me wonder how often I must look just as ridiculous because of other decisions I make or things I say.

I love the Good News Translation of Proverbs 16:23: “Intelligent people think before they speak; what they say is then more persuasive.” When you match that up with another verse, it’s a no-brainer. “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.” James 1:15 NIV

I wish I’d asked for wisdom before I opened my mouth and inserted my foot that day. It would have gone far in building up my marriage, instead of putting strain on it. Next time, I’ll try to be a bit slower to speak and involve my brain before engaging my tongue.

Have anything to add? I’d love to hear from you.