ME AND MY BIG MOUTH (TAMING THE TONGUE)

Do You know that the way you choose words defines who you really are? Do you know that words have power?

Let no evil talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for edifying, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear.

Ephesians 4:29

The Bible exhorts us to clean up our language and use words that are pleasing to God. It is very challenging to keep oneself from unwholesome talk, but our speech gives an evidence of our level of maturity as Christians. In James 3:8, the Bible tells us that “no human being can tame the tongue – a restless evil, full of deadly poison”. Yet, with God’s spirit within us, we can control our tongues. As with many things “with men this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26). We sometimes regret the words we have spoken but they can never be retrieved. That is why we need to control our tongue and seek the help of God.

We should rely on God’s strength and dedicate our minds and tongues to God. Read and meditate on the scriptures daily. Strive to speak words of encouragement and apologise for unloving words. Focus your heart on what is good as Apostle Paul admonishes us in Philippians 4:8, and it will reflect on your words thereby bringing honor to God and others. Remember, the book of Proverbs 21:23 says “He who keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble”. Let our tongues bring healing (Proverbs 12:18). Remove foul talk from your mouth, put off the old nature and be renewed after the image of our creator (Colossians 2:8-10).