Our Tongues

For being such a small part of the body, this little muscle can sure make a big impact on a life! Whether good or bad, the tongue has enormous power and therefore should be controlled and directed acordingly. 

 

There are many scriptures that speak to this matter, but I will chose a select few. 

 

James 3:7-8 – All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, ⁸ but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

Words can really hurt. Many people would rather be physically abused then verbally, because the physical pain does not linger the way an emotional scar does. Words can be a weapon, and whether we realize it or not, we may be doing more damage with our words then can be helpful. 

 

Proverbs 12:18 – The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Proverbs 12:25 – Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

Words can also build up. In fact, there are few things more encouraging then a kind word, especially when spoken during a time of need. 

 

Proverbs 21:23 – Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.

Let us ask ourselves this question before every statement. Is what I want to say going to help or hurt? Is what I want to say going to build up or break down somebody’s feelings?

 

Proverbs 13:3 – Those who guard their lips preserve their lives, but those who speak rashly will come to ruin.

You will never regret saying something that helps or benefits all parties affected by the statement. Yet how many times have you regretted saying something that was negative? Have you ever said something faster then you took time to think about it, or in the heat of emotion, just to later think “I wish I could take that back”

 

Colossians 4:6 – Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone.

Let’s take the time to think before we speak, because if you are like me, your first reaction in an emotional moment is likely to be the wrong one. But if I take a moment to consider my response, my second response is usually an acceptable one that will not leave me with regret. 

 

This shows me that I can exercise self control in this area, if only I can manage to take the time to think. I am less likely to respond well if I am reacting to quickly, but if I reserve the right to consider my response, I can probably manage some self control.