You’d think by the time a person is my age, she would have it all together, right? At least said person should know when to say things and when to keep her thoughts to herself, right? Well, unfortunately, that’s not always the case.
For example, yesterday I was visiting with a couple of young friends. We were discussing a certain style that’s popular today. One of the women mentioned that she hadn’t decided yet what she thought about the style, and I spoke up and said in no uncertain terms that I didn’t like it.
Then I remembered that one of the young ladies was wearing it. Oops!
Fortunately, my young friend was gracious enough to forgive my faux pas, but, boy, did I feel bad about it for quite a while!
I tend to be a very honest person, which is a good thing. However, the flip side of that is that I all too often say things that would be better left unsaid.
By now I know that, in and of myself, I can’t control my tongue. I need the help of the Holy Spirit!
It helps to give Him something to work with, so I now know I need to memorize (or review!) scriptures (See point #4.) about my issues with my tongue for Him to use to remind me—scriptures like:
Psalm 19:14
Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart
Be acceptable in Your sight,
O Lord, my strength and my Redeemer.
James 1:26
If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.
It also helps for me to humble myself and apologize to the person whom I have offended with my tongue. That should be unpleasant enough to be a reminder the next time before I spout off!
It is amazing to me how much damage an unbridled tongue can commit! It’s interesting how much good it can do too! Some verses that help me know that my tongue can be a blessing are Psalm 35:28, Psalm 119:172, and Proverbs 15:4.
I used to have a plaque on my wall that said: Lord, Fill My Mouth With Worthwhile Stuff and Nudge Me When I’ve Said Enuff!
Perhaps I need to post it again in plain sight and pray it daily!!
YES