Guard Your Tongue

Focus verses: Psalm 141

David knew the power of words. In this psalm he asks the Lord to set a guard over his mouth and keep watch over the door of his lips.

The tongue is a small thing, but it wields enormous power. With it we can bless or curse. We can change opinions with our rhetoric. We can move nations with our oratory.

But the tongue is a treacherous member. It sometimes flies off with the quick retort or the supposedly witty repartee. Generally those quick lines are hurtful or sarcastic in order to make us look superior or smart.

David was wise in asking the Lord to set a guard over his lips. We can do the same. In addition, we can apply this sage advice.

Before you are tempted to say something ask yourself three questions.

Is it true? Can you verify it of your own knowledge? If not, don't say it.
Is it kind? Does it put someone else in an unfavorable light? Speak only what is kind.
Is it needful? If it isn't absolutely necessary, don't say it.

Philippians:4:8: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

Think on these things. Speak only of these things.

Father, God,

Help us to watch our speech and guard our tongues. We surrender our words to Your direction. Give us words that heal, not harm.

In Jesus' most precious name.
Amen.