“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear,” Ephesians 4:29 (ESV). I am by nature a talkative person and find it easy to strike up conversations with just about anybody. While I’ve become far more circumspect over a lifetime, I still hear myself say things I later regret. Giving voice to random thoughts often harms both the speaker and the hearer. Our mouths can be a fountain of blessing or an open sewer. Also, I’ve learned how important it is to avoid those who habitually spread negative things about others, “For the ear tests words as the palate tastes food,” Job 34:3 (ESV). So, both our mouth and ears need to be brought under God’s management through His Word and Spirit. LORD, I submit my hearing and speaking under Your divine guidance.
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.
Amen. I am devastated by the horrid reality that the each and every syllable uttered by my tongue either Creates Life or it Creates Death. There Never is an in between. God help me to do no harm.
ReplyDeleteFather, I yield this member to You. I give you legal rights to me et al. I'm willing for You and only You to own me, control me and only show Glory to You forever and ever. Amen