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“When words are many transgressions is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lip is prudent.” Proverbs 10:19 (ESV)

As a kid, I rarely kept quiet. Words spewed effortlessly from my lips, and my friends often called me, “Motormouth.” I’m sure there were many moments when I probably drove my parents crazy with my nonstop chatter. I always had something to say. I was never speechless, despite the fact silence would have served me well on several occasions.

While my childhood chatter was amusing, an unceasing flow of words can easily open the door to carelessness. We’ve probably all experienced the aftermath of speaking without thinking. And if we’re really getting honest, we’ve said some words we meant in the moment but later regretted. Evidence of why pause before uttering a sound is good advice. Silence serves us well when emotions are raging high.

Keeping it real here – gossip, slander and criticism aren’t quite the gracious words mentioned in Proverbs 16:24. No sweetness for the soul who is the hot topic of those conversations. Without a second of hesitation, we can easily tear down, wound and minimize others. Like a thrusting sword, reckless words shred vulnerable souls.

Bottom line – God never intended for our words to destroy or hurt others. The One who breathed life into our longs and enables us to speak desires words which birth life, love and grace. And if we’re not sure what to say or what not to say, we don’t’ have to wonder. Proverbs and the book of James are full of examples demonstrating the importance of taming our tongue. Great wisdom and knowledge for those who seek to build others up rather than tear them down (Ephesians 4:29).

Perhaps, we all need to evaluate our spoken and written words. Are we reflecting the love of God? Do we find great pleasure in devouring others with our words? Do we say, write, tweet or post without pausing to consider how others may perceive our words? Are we opinionated and argumentative?

Yes, a lot to think about when it comes to unceasing chatter. Lots of words filling the air we breathe in every day. Easy to get caught up in the trap of saying whatever we want, whatever we feel in the moment. Takes great restrain to stop, pause and think before even one syllable utters from our lips.

Love this sweet reminder from Psalm 19:4 “Let the words of my mouth and the mediation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight O Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.” Plain and simple – God is aware of our internal and external speech – let’s choose to make Him proud by weighing the value of what we are saying before we speak.

“Father, You have given us specific instructions on how we can lift up and encourage others. Help us to heed Your wisdom and speak life to all we meet.”

For His Glory

Janet Martin
TRBC Women’s Life