Described in the Bible as
- A deadly arrow (Jeremiah 9:8)
- A fire (James 3:6)
- A deadly poison (James 3:8),
- my tongue requires constant attention.
Can you see where this Lesson is going? Yes, another week with a sudden burst of harsh words laced with sarcasm. . . resulting in a pierced heart of someone I love. . . followed by a telephone call asking forgiveness. When will I learn to control my tongue?
Expressing what happens when the tongue is used wisely and well, King Solomon wrote, The tongue of the wise brings healing. (Proverbs 12:18 NIV) Healing rather than hurting pleases the heart of God and is the desire of my heart. Yet thoughtless words come so easily.
Over the years, I have learned that careful speech is a fruit of the Christian life resulting from a heart controlled by the Spirit of God. Apart from God, control of my tongue is impossible! But, when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace. . . self-control. (Galatians 5:22 TLB)
The tongue provides a window to my heart and soul, at times revealing pride, anger, impatience and sin. Pray with me this week because with the Spirit's control, amazing words and actions are possible. Without the Spirit's control, it is an ugly scene.
May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. (Psalm 19:14 NIV)
Sharing the journey with you,
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