Have you ever said something and immediately wish you could start over? “Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues.”
— Proverbs 10:19 NIV
Once Susan and I were at a party, a young lady came up to us and introduced herself. We had a cordial short conversation, but then I looked down at her stomach, and I asked “So when are you due.” She replied “I AM NOT PREGNANT!” What we say shows the condition of our hearts. And while it’s important to be careful to use words that bring glory to God, it’s the unfiltered words — the ones we don’t catch before they come out — that are the most telling. Instead of just making a conscious effort to censor our words, we need to examine our hearts to find the root of the problem. Are our first reactions criticism? Judgment? Greed? Insensitivity? Then the Lord wants us to grow in grace, love, generosity, and encouragement. Controlling the tongue starts with a change in our hearts.
Have a great day!