This morning is a time of confession. I hope you don’t mind that I share.
Yesterday, I didn’t stop myself from doing something I know is wrong. I allowed myself to gossip! And yes, I have repented. It was wrong and ungodly.
There are so many more things we can fill our mouths with, without filling them with words that are derogatory. My actions made my heart hurt and I also know that the Holy Spirit was grieved.
Why am I sharing this with you?
I felt it was important to let you know what the Lord is ministering to me this morning. Our words have creative power – they can give life but they can also bring about death. Maybe not physical death but they can bring death to a relationship, to someone’s character, to a good testimony.
“Words can bring death or life! Talk too much, and you will eat everything you say.” Proverbs 18:21 CEV
James, the apostle, tells us that a mature persons learns to bridle their tongue. Jesus’ example is always the one we should follow. I’m sure He had numerous occasions to gossip but He didn’t. He didn’t because He knew it wouldn’t please the Father. Proverbs tells us that gossip is one of the seven things God hates. Now that’s strong!
The question then comes, how do I keep from it. This was King David’s prayer:
“Help me to guard my words whenever I say something.” Psalm 141:3 CEV
“Let my words and my thoughts be pleasing to you, Lord, because you are my mighty rock and my protector.” Psalm 19:14 CEV
And these words come from King Solomon:
“Watching what you say can save you a lot of trouble.” Proverbs 21:23 CEV
If you find yourself in a situation where you are gossiping or saying something unkind, stop and repent. The best way I have found to control my tongue is to keep quiet – learn the vocabulary of silence.
“But the words that come out of your mouth come from your heart. And they are what make you unfit to worship God.” Matthew 15:18 CEV
Lord, help us all to honor You with our heart’s attitude and our words! Amen!!