I ran across this the other day and found it to be a solid challenge, rebuke, and reminder: “Lord, save me from the sins of my tongue and the flaws of character that fuel them. Make my words honest (by taking away my fear), few (by taking away my self-importance), wise (by taking away my thoughtlessness), and kind (by taking away my indifference and irritability). Amen.” (Timothy Keller in Songs of Jesus) That’s strong, isn’t it? It’s a pretty complete look at the story of what our mouth is capable of and how to correct its negative results. It is a prayer worth starting the day with. In my case, as I reflect on a number of yesterday’s conversations, I should probably recite this prayer before every conversation I have. Our mouth is designed to encourage, bless, love, and when appropriate, to lovingly rebuke. Our mouth is powerful. “You’re fired”, “I hate you,” “I wish you were dead,” and “I want a divorce,” are but a few examples that, depending who says them, can devastate and even destroy a life. Contrast those with “I love you,” “You are incredibly valuable and important,” “Thank you, be blessed my friend,” and we can begin to see how easily we lift up or tear down with our words. Today, speak love, peace and truth from the Father. #BeTheEdge
“From the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be this way.” James 3:10 NASB
