GET CONTROL OF THAT MOUTH AND THE WORDS YOU SAY

The character Steve Urkel played by actor Jaleel White on The TV show 'Family Matters' used to utter the phrase "Did I do that?"  In our own lives we could probably utter the phrase "Did I say that" because many a time the old mouth seems to pop open before we think of what we are saying. Consequently you can get into real trouble if  you are not careful. Embarrassment, hurt, pain,  and misunderstandings can all occur after misspoken words.

The entire chapter of James 3, which I have mentioned numerous times, concerns the dangers of the tongue. We can go on needlessly chattering not even paying attention to whom our words might affect. I always think James 1:19 is an excellent verse to memorize and to use in all types of relationships but especially marriages. It says "My dear brothers take note of this. Let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry." That should be your assignment for today and everyday and more friendships and marriages  would remain intact and not fractured.

Quarrels can occur as a result of words spoken that should not have. For instance in Proverbs 27:15 speaking specifically to the ladies it says "A quarrelsome wife is like a constant dripping on a rainy day." So see ladies if we can not gain control of that mouth and try to pick fights then we sound like a dripping water faucet. Proverbs 21:9 also says "Better to live on a corner of the roof than share a house with a quarrelsome wife." Ouch! Don't be a drip and don't cause people to run live in a corner okay?

 But men you are not off the hook. Men are not to be bitter to their wives or children. Colossians 3:19 reminds them by saying "Husbands, love your wives and do not be harsh with them." When you are harsh do others think you are a Christian. And with children it reminds men in Ephesians 6:4 to not exasperate your children.

Ephesians 4:29 is an excellent memory verse about our words. It says "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear." If only we could do this on a daily basis. Before you talk about somebody stop and ask yourself if Jesus would approve if he were with you because he is with you. What do you gain by belittling someone anyway? Aren't we supposed to be showing love instead?

Let me just give you a few more verses on words for you to think about in your spare time.

Proverbs 25:11 A  word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.
Proverbs 10:19 When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.
Proverbs 18:7   A fool's mouth is his undoing, and his lips are a snare to his soul.
Proverbs 10:14 Wise men store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin.
Proverbs 12:13 An evil man is trapped by his sinful talk, but a righteous man escapes trouble.
Proverbs 13:3 He who guards his lips guards his life, but he who speaks rashly will come to ruin.
Ecclesiastes 10:12 Words from a wise man's mouth are gracious, but a fool is consumed by his own lips.
Psalm 19:14 Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.

There you have it. Do your own search in the Bible for more valuable verses on controlling what we say. Do not be hasty and really ask God to help you think before you accidentally say something you will regret later. Let the words coming from your mouth build up not tear down.

PRAYER: Lord Jesus I thank you for the gift of being able to talk. I need to be careful not to use my mouth against people but use it to say nice things and to praise you. Thank you for the gift of speech. I want mine to only bring glory to you. In Jesus Name. Amen.


Sorry this is late. I am travelling this week.