Guard Your Words: By Ann Broughton

Guard Your Words: By Ann Broughton

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

Do the words you speak show others the love of Christ? Words are very powerful. Spoken cruelly they can ruin reputations, cause hurt, destroy self-esteem, and cause arguments. Spoken with love, words can boost self-esteem, bring encouragement, promote a positive mind set, and fill a person’s soul with peace. Now what kind of words would you like to speak? What do people think about you because of the words you speak?

I love the book of James because it is full of wisdom, especially about the tongue. James says the tongue is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. (James 3:8) “Out of the same mouth comes praise and cursing” (James 3: 10 NIV). He is correct. As Christians, we need to be a witness of Christ with our words. We must choose them wisely so that our words are not deadly poison to anyone. Think before you speak and ask yourself, “Would the Lord approve of what I am saying?” Ask yourself, “If the person I am talking about was standing right here would I say this?” You cannot take back words. Once they are spoken they cannot be taken back. It is so important that you think before you speak. Let your words offer hope, love, and kindness. If you have hurt someone with your words, tell them you are sorry. What is very sobering is what Jesus spoke about our words and judgment. “But I tell you that men will have to give account on the day of judgment for every careless word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned” (Matthew 12:36-37 NIV).

So this week, think before you speak. The Holy Spirit will help you to choose words that will be beneficial to others. Remember that you are Christ’s ambassador in a world that needs His hope and love.

Dear Lord,

Help me to speak words that are beneficial to others. Help me to speak with your wisdom. Help me to be known as a person who speaks words of encouragement.

In Jesus’ name,

Amen