“The tongue of the wise commends knowledge, but the mouths of fools pour out folly,” Proverbs 15:2 (ESV). Sometimes I feel like an observer as I listen to myself speak. At times, words overloaded with emotion and selfishness tumble out, yet at other times, I hear God clearly speaking to me or others. Our Creator placed a powerful instrument on the front of our faces. The mouth can be a huge fountain of blessing and encouragement or a giant, spirit-crushing hammer. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits,” Proverbs 18:21 (ESV). Considering it wields such enormous power I must be circumspect how I use my mouth! Blessed Father, help me speak only life, never death. Purify my heart and mind so only truth-empowered love exits my lips. Holy Spirit, govern me, guide me, and use me.
A serious pursuit of godliness requires an equally serious renunciation of worldliness. Too often, we measure spirituality with false scales. While being wisely selective with our public vices we are less so with our private attitudes and perspectives. In reality, it is the thoughts and intents of the heart where the greatest battles must be waged; our actions will ultimately align with the condition of our hearts. Lord God, You know me inside out, You are not fooled by human facades. Plow my heart with Your Word and Spirit and leave nothing unturned. Refresh my inward man that I may outwardly glorify You in all places at all times.
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