Taming of the Tongue

A time to rend, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak
~ Ecclesiastes 3:7 ~

One of the greatest achievements of Christian discipline is to know when to keep silent and when to speak, and this involves the power of controlled speech. This power is not found in ourselves. This is why the Bible speaks of the tongue as an untamed member. Beasts, birds, and reptiles can be tamed, but not the tongue. Indeed, the Scriptures state categorically that “no man can tame the tongue” (James 3:8). It goes without saying, then, that the power of controlled speech must be supernatural; and thank God, the Christian can know the secret. When Jesus Christ is Lord of our lives, He can control our tongues by first of all controlling our thoughts and tempers.
~ A Time to Keep Silence and a Time to Speak ~

I have, on occasion, spoken out of frustration and anger. The tiny spark detonating ugly words. Scripture speaks that we are to discipline ourselves where we are mindful of our speech (Ephesians 4:31; Colossians 3:8; James 1:19-20). I am to admit that I may have caused it by being too quick to react to ridiculous accusation of slander. Do I take everything someone says against me – in their frustrated rage against themselves – as an offense toward me?

When someone explodes, I am responsible to realize that it is always best to be mindful and remain silent. I want to remind myself that such outbursts only reveal the individuals own unhappiness and dissatisfaction. I move to detach myself from making the situation far more worst by taking seriously what they say.

TODAY’S PRAYER AND MEDITATION

Heavenly Father, let me learn to keep peace with silence when it is not the right time to say what comes to mind. Help me discipline my thoughts and emotions as a means to tame my own tongue so that I do not speak harm toward another. Assist me in walking in grace and mindfulness – ever forgiving toward those who use their tongue for offense and slander. In Jesus name, Amen.

DONATE TO HELP MAINTAIN DAMASCUS WAY RECOVERY

DONATE USING PAYPAL

Your contribution helps with the maintenance of this website, provide ongoing devotionals, thought-provoking articles, and continue to be a blessing and ministry in the lives of many who are struggling in their faith.