10 May

Hold your tongue.

What a timely reminder for me! I usually tend to imagine this verse in the scenario of an argument. If you’ve ever been a part of a quarrel, I’m guessing you understand the unstoppable surge of emotive language that can spill from your mouth. For some, it takes little to trigger such a response and for others, it could be an outburst from pent up torment. It can be effortless to realise how words spoken in the rush of anger / bitterness / hurt could cause us to sin.

However, this verse isn’t simply referring to such situations.

It also addresses the temptation to gossip – to discuss matters about other people which is no way edifying or loving. It addresses the temptation to make rude / crude jokes – sarcasm is a flavour of language that is to be used with MUCH discretion Beloved! It addresses the temptation to idolize relationships – when we make it a habit of pouring out our hearts to a person instead of making God our first point of call.

In what ways can you be mindful of your speech (both physical and virtual) this week?

Father, thank You for giving us the gift of speech. Thank You for the instrument of words. Please grant us discretion and self-control to use our words to edify, bless and convey godly love to those around us. We’re sorry for the times that we’ve sinned against You – wilfully and unknowingly – and for the times we’ve wounded others because of the things we’ve said. Thank You for the guidance of Your Spirit. Help us to exercise wisdom and restraint in a world which cries, “speak your mind”.

May the words of our mouth and the mediation of our heart be pleasing in Your sight Lord – our strength & Redeemer.

Love You Lord.