"Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption." (Ephesians 4:29-30)
"Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity. The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and creature of the sea, is tamed and has been tamed by mankind. But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree, my brethren, bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh." (James 3:5-12)
When we are tempted to say something unwholesome or unkind, we must stop and think. When we are hurt, angry, or frustrated, it is tempting to let corrupt words come from our mouths. Instead, we should strive to speak only words that uplift and bless others. Therefore, before we speak, we should consider if the words that we are preparing to speak are edifying or corrupt. Do they extend grace to hearers or do they simply wound? God's Word tells us that what comes out of our mouths is a reflection of our hearts.
Let our words show others that we love and follow Jesus.
Let's Pray:
"Dear God, it is so easy for me to allow corrupt words to come out of my mouth, particularly when I am angered, frustrated, misunderstood or unfairly treated. But, You can fill me with Your great Spirit of self-control to battle this temptation. You promised that no temptation will overtake me, that is uncommon. And that with ever temptation, You will graciously provide a way out. I wholly stand on this wonderful promise O my Lord.
Thank You for giving me Your perfect example of loving others and extending grace. May my words ever reflect Your heart, O Lord. Help me use words that edify and bless others rather than wound them.
Purify my mind and heart deep within, so that my words are a reflection of Your loving heart. It is only because of Your Son Jesus Christ, and Your grace that I can overcome this untamed 'horror'. I desperately need Your help in this particular area.
O Lord, Help of the helpless, abide with me!
Thank You for Your faithfulness.
In Jesus' name, amen."
Guy