The Power of WordsSample

If someone thinks he is religious yet does not bridle his tongue, and so deceives his heart, his religion is futile. (James 1:26 NET)

At the core of true godliness is the ability to keep one's tongue under control. The urge to over talk falls on many of us, but the word of God admonishes us to talk less. The simple logic behind this is that those who love to talk often find themselves saying things they ought not to say. We must learn to think clearly about what we want to say before we say it. But a man who loves to talk doesn't have enough time to think through what he wants to say. The Bible teaches in Proverbs 10:19 that "When words abound, transgression is inevitable, but the one who restrains his words is wise." (NET). Surely, there's great wisdom in restraining one's words.

Our Bible passage today shows us that one of the proofs of being godly is controlling our tongue. Careless talk reflects lack of spiritual maturity. Like the Psalmist we must say to God "O Lord, place a guard on my mouth! Protect the opening of my lips!" (Psalms 141:3 NET).

PRAYER POINT

LORD, HELP ME TO RESIST THE URGE TO TALK TOO MUCH. TEACH ME TO KNOW WHEN TO SPEAK AND WHEN TO BE QUIET.