When I was growing up, my lips often got the best of me. Dirty words that at times exited my yapper would be heard by my Mom through an open window. The stern calling of my name and a feisty exchange with dish soap — which my Mom always won — followed, leaving me with a sour face and a vow to never swear again. Too bad her method never stuck, because I would soon go back to my old ways, only further away from any window.

Now that I’m older, I recognize the profound impact of all my words, not just the four-lettered ones. While I occasionally say the wrong things, I’ve become humble more quickly and apologize or seek forgiveness for my ill expressions. Even so, there are times I wish I could take my tongue and tie it in knots before ever speaking unkindly.

Nowadays, it seems like anything goes in respect to the mouth. Our freedom of speech has been taken to the extreme, so people feel free to say what they wish without regard for those on the receiving end.

Words can and will ruin, as the verse from Proverbs states. Even if they don’t ruin our reputation, they have the potential to tear down relationships.

But words can also be used to preserve friendships and build up love.

Let’s desire to live by the principle that words matter; let us speak in a spirit of love. For then, words will be a life preserver both to ourselves and the ones hearing them.

Father God, there are days that I wish you would muzzle me so that harmful or biting words wouldn't erupt from my mouth. Please place a strong guard over it so that I think more deeply on what to say before ever saying it, thus preserving myself and others. Keep me glorifying you with every syllable. In Jesus’ powerful name I ask and pray, amen.

Go Deeper — Has your mouth ever gotten you in trouble? If so, pray that God would engrave the words of today’s verse on your heart so that everything you say can bring joy to Him and others.



Tags: Proverbs Proverbs 13
Photo Credit: Ben White