My husband and I had a recent argument, and I said things that I do not mean. I thank Jesus that my husband is patient and forgave me even before I admitted I was wrong and asked for forgiveness. We, women, often blame our hormones when we become moody and grumpy. But honestly, this is not a sensible reason or a good excuse. On the contrary, one should clutch on the word of God when our worldly flesh keeps us from acting according to what the Scriptures teach us. Keep in mind that our speech is lethal. You would not want to hurt the people you love, all because you do not think before you speak.
The tongue has the power of life and death.
– Solomon
Bible Reading
Today’s devotional reading is from the Book of James 3:8-10. Please, read our recent devotional from the Book of James 3:1-3: Knowledge Is A Privilege and Also A Responsibility
Think Before You Speak
James explained that through our words we bless our Lord and curse people who are image-bearer of God (James 3:9). Hence, we can say that our tongue is lethal. Now we have to examine ourselves on how we use this power. King Solomon wrote, Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble (Proverbs 21:23).
Are we using our words to stir trouble in our lives or to others? Many people say that it is better to hurt physically than verbally. Physical injuries heal through time. However, lethal words affect us differently. Moreover, it is harder to forget and forgive hurtful words thrown at us. Wounding things we say out loud can never be taken back. According to John MacArthur, a person’s tongue has immense power to speak sinfully. Human speech is a graphic representation of human depravity.
When our minds are not conditioned to think pure and holy thoughts, then it will be manifested in the manner we speak. Therefore, let us keep in mind that our speech is lethal. Likewise, remember that Jesus said, But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. (Matthew 12:36)
Reflection
This is the time for your journaling. Reflect on these questions. Ask the Holy Spirit to test your faith and your walk with Christ.
Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? — 2 Corinthians 13:5 KJV.
- What is your thought about the use of your tongue?
- Have you hurt someone by your words?
- How did it affect your relationship?
- What did you feel after saying a hurtful word?
- Do you consider thinking ill about others is the same as speaking it out loud?
- Have you asked the Spirit of Christ to tame your tongue? Accept Jesus Now.
- Here is another article to exam the lethality of speech.
Related Posts
- Tame the tongue
- Be Sober
- The importance of warning the wicked
- Proud or Humble
- Are You Strong To Face God At The End?
- Be the Light to Shine Out of Darkness
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we praise your holy name. Thank you for your Son, Jesus Christ who gave us eternal life. Grant that the Holy Spirit will help us tame our mouths. May we speak only of holy and true words. Words that bring hope and comfort to others. O Lord, Jesus, help us to be bold in spreading your Good News. Provide us opportunities wherein we can share you with others. Holy Spirit reprove us in our faults and sin, especially in our speech.
We pray these things in Jesus’ holy name. Amen.
