Guard Your Tongue

Guard Your Tongue
"The lips of the righteous nourish many, but fools die for lack of judgment."
Proverbs 10"21
I have written many devotionals over the years about the power of the tongue. The words that come out of our mouths can harm, damage and even ruin reputations. The Bible tells us over and over that whatever comes out of our mouth, comes from the heart. Words spoken that damage someone's character or reputation can never be taken back no matter how much you tell them that you are sorry, as there is always damage that can never be repaired. I remember my grandmother once saying that the tongue is an "unruly member" and if we let it loose it can destroy people. She gave me an example, and said that it is like throwing up a bucket of feathers into the wind, which scatters everywhere. No matter how much we try to retrieve the feathers we will never recover all of them. Our words are like the feathers, and we will never be able to recover or make right all the damage that can be done. Once they are out there, we have no idea where they will go, and it is impossible to recover all of them. Even though we wish we hadn't spoken them, and can apologize there will always be a trace that will remain. If there is a lesson I can pass on to you today, it is on controlling your tongue. Take time to think before you speak, and always remember, are the words you speak ones that will "edify, encourage, and build others up", or are they words that will "do harm, tear down and discourage" others. We need to be reminded each day by the many scriptures in the Bible, about the power of the tongue, and the damage it can do. Make it a point today to choose your words wisely, as they can do great harm and turn people away, but they can also be used to let others see the presence of God in your life.
My Daily Devotional Volume Six
March 9
Robert William Brock, Jr.