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Mind Your Tongue

January 2025


Words matter.  What we say shapes our most intimate relationships with spouses, children and friends as well as our broader spheres of influence at work and in our community.  They have power to encourage, build up, heal and work for a common good.  They also have power to demoralize, tear down, wound and work for a self- centered good. They have the capacity to bring life. Tragically, they have the capacity to also bring death.


God calls each of us to “mind your tongue”.  Take control over what you say and when you say it. This discipline is for your own good—it has a positive impact on your whole being. “We all stumble in many ways.  Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check” (James 3:2).  This discipline will benefit those around you. “The soothing tongue is a tree of life, but a perverse tongue crushes the spirit” (Proverbs 15:4).  This discipline will build up the community of believers.  “Speaking the truth in love, we will grow to become in every respect the mature body of Him who is the head, that is Christ” (Ephesians 4:15).


Where do I start?  Try this.  “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry” (James 1:19).  Turn on your listening ears.  Listen actively.  Pay full attention to what others are saying.  Ask good questions before formulating a response so you can clarify meaning and give the benefit of the doubt. Slow down. Pause before speaking.  Take a moment to consider your words before you speak. Are they necessary, kind, and truthful? Speak humbly and directly.  Say what you mean and mean what you say. Curb your anger.  Don’t just react.  Take a step back. Reflect why the conversation is becoming disturbing to you.  You may find that it’s your own ego and pride causing the conflict.


Who can you bless with your words today?  Have a conversation.  Make a phone call.  Send a text, an email, or better yet, a card. Mind your tongue and put it to good use!  


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