“Does anyone want to live a life that is long and prosperous? Then keep your tongue from speaking evil and your lips from telling lies.”
Psalm 34:12-13 (NLT)
James 3:7-8 tells us people can tame all kinds of animals, birds and reptiles, etc, but no one can tame the tongue, so why should we try? Because “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: ...” (Proverbs 18:21 KJV).
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The tongue reveals our human nature, but with God's help our tongues can be controlled. Proverbs 13:3 tells us, “Those who control their tongues will have a long life, opening your mouth can ruin everything.”
So how do we control our tongues? First of all, “You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry.” (James 1:19). “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble” (Proverbs 21:23).
Proverbs advises that, “the tongue of the wise is health” (12:18 KJV), and “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life:” (15:4).
James 1:26 tells us, “If you claim to be religious but don't control your tongue, you are fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless.”
“Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut” (Proverbs 10:19).
So let's make sure our tongues are a source of encouragement and blessing to everyone we come into contact with and that we open our mouths with wisdom and in our tongue “is the law of kindness” (Proverbs 31:26 KJV). Let's be quick to listen and slow to speak.
Prayer
Father, please help me to keep my mouth shut and to only speak what is kind and helpful to others. In Jesus' name I pray.
Amen
This study was posted March 30, 2011 on Day by Day.org.uk. You can view it as well as send comments by clicking here.
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See also: Taming The Tongue
