How To Hold My Tongue: Part 2
OPENING PRAYER:
Our Father who is in heaven, may your name be kept holy. I come now to grow closer in my relationship with you. Refine my heart from your word. Grant me understanding and courage to put into practice what I learn. In Jesus name, amen.
READ:
James 3:7-8 (NIV)
“All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.”
Psalms 141:3 (NIV)
“Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
REFLECT:
What are your favorite movies or TV shows that use real animals? Some of mine are Raiders of the Lost Ark (elephant and monkey), Flipper (dolphin), Babe (pig), Black Stallion (horse) and, of course, Lassie (collie dog). Man has tamed and used lions, snakes, carrier pigeons, dogs, and all sorts of animals (except cats – no one can train cats). Uniquely trained animals can be used to rescue, perform work tasks, sniff for drugs, people, or money, and entertain. It takes work and consistent, disciplined effort, but it can and is done. But no one can tame the tongue that you and I use every day to hurt, incite, offend, and curse. We desperately need a “tongue-tamer”, but no human is up to the task. We need heavenly help. Jesus longs to direct the Holy Spirit to provide that help. There are many instances in scripture where the Spirit provides the words through believers to accomplish his purposes. God even speaks through a donkey to correct his prophet. (Numbers 22:21-41). He can, and will, work through a willing heart….and tongue.
APPLY:
Approach God with reverence and ask him – “Help me to guard my words whenever I say something” Psalms 141:3 CEV. Ask a trusted confident to help you recognize when your tongue is out of control. Learn the circumstances when you struggle the most – with work colleagues, when hungry or tired, under stressful situations or with your closest loved ones. Confess quickly. Apologize when necessary. Repeat the prayer. Watch him work. “...being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 NIV
CLOSING PRAYER:
God, so many times I run to my own wisdom and efforts when there is a promise of Godly wisdom and strength right at the door if I will just trust you and knock. Help me today to be prepared ahead of time to come to you and trust you before I lose control of my tongue. Amen