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Presented by Lisa Bishop
Have your words ever gotten you in hot water? We have been examining why our words matter and I want to turn our attention to a powerful piece of wisdom from Proverbs.
Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity (Proverbs 21:23).
Now we can acknowledge this is practical advice for everyday living, right? Yet if we are honest, we can blow by these pearls of wisdom and be careless with our words.
When have your words gotten you into trouble? Maybe it was something you said about a co-worker or friend, and it got back to them. Or maybe it was an inappropriate outburst of disapproval in a meeting. In our daily lives we all encounter situations that test our patience, tempt us to react impulsively, and speak without considering the consequences. However, Proverbs is a clear warning to be intentional about guarding our mouths and tongues, reminding us that exercising restraint leads to positive outcomes.
When you refrain from speaking words that can cause harm such as gossip, lies, or hurtful remarks, you are kept from unnecessary trouble and distress. Remember that once words are spoken, they cannot be taken back, and they can have lingering impact. When you are mindful of what you say, you will minimize conflicts and misunderstandings.
Guarding our tongues goes beyond verbal communication. Social media posts, texts, and instant messages can greatly influence how other people perceive us. Use discretion and integrity in all forms of communication. Filter your words through Ephesians 4:29 which says,
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen (Ephesians 4:29).
Exercising self-control with your words will lead to a life protected from unnecessary troubles and conflicts. Using wisdom will keep you from saying something that grieves God and from situations you will later regret. By choosing your words carefully and speaking with kindness you honor God and make a positive contribution to the well-being of those around you.
When you do mess up with your words, quickly own it. Don’t make excuses, admit your mishap. Humbly ask for forgiveness.
Instead of lashing out, lavish people with life-giving words. Make every effort to guard your mouth so you can keep a clear conscience and be free from needless quarrels.