Be Careful What You Say by Ann Elaine Broughton

“Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3 NIV).

    Words are very powerful. They can tear a heart into pieces and ruin lives when used carelessly. Have you been a victim of words that hurt?   Have you spoken words you wished you could take back? I am sure that none of us are perfect in this area. But as Christians it is essential to try to measure what we say wisely. Think before you speak. Is what you are about to say beneficial? Is it positive? Does it make someone feel better? Is it true? 

    We need to remember how Jesus responded to those around Him.

He never quarreled. He stated the facts calmly, even before those who sought to crucify Him. He showed patience when his own disciples didn’t understand His purpose and what He would have to suffer. He even spoke calmly to the Pharisees who were constantly trying to corner Him to catch Him doing wrong. You see Jesus showed all of us how we are to behave, and since now He is in us, we too can act and talk like Him.  Too often we don’t really consider that we have Christ in us and with that, we have at our fingertips, His ability to change lives through words spoken wisely. But, it takes self control and a willingness to daily be in communication with the Lord. Prayer is what can help us be better speakers of the truth of Christ. The Holy Spirit can help us choose words that uplift other people’s spirits instead of putting them down.

    There are people around you who need to hear words of wisdom. They need to be encouraged to do the right thing. They need to know that they are chosen by God to do wonderful works for Him. You are the one who needs to reach out and share uplifting words to those around you.

   This week, pray before you speak, think before you speak, and try to speak only words that are beneficial to those around you. Words spoken wisely and in love are precious in deed.

Dear Lord,

 Help me to choose my words wisely. Help me to be a good example of you by what I say and do. Help me to build other people up and not tear anyone down with my words. Let me always remember that words can change lives forever.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen