In what ways can believers guard their tongues against "trouble and malice"? The Verse Psalm 10:7: “His mouth is full of cursing, deceit, and violence; trouble and malice are under his tongue.” Why the Tongue Needs Guarding • Our words reveal the state of the heart (Luke 6:45). • An unrestrained tongue can set “the whole course of life on fire” (James 3:6). • God will require an account for “every careless word” (Matthew 12:36). Ten Practical Commitments for Guarding the Tongue 1. • Examine the heart first ‑ Ask the Spirit to expose motives before words form (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. • Stay slow to speak ‑ “Be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger” (James 1:19). 3. • Keep silence when needed ‑ “Even a fool is considered wise when he keeps silent” (Proverbs 17:28). 4. • Filter speech through Scripture ‑ Memorize verses like Psalm 19:14; let them “guard the door” of your lips. 5. • Choose edifying words only ‑ “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up” (Ephesians 4:29). 6. • Replace curses with blessing ‑ “Bless and do not curse” (Romans 12:14); speak grace over irritation. 7. • Confess quickly when you stumble ‑ Agree with God, receive cleansing (1 John 1:9), and make restitution if needed. 8. • Surround yourself with truthful companions ‑ “He who walks with the wise grows wise” (Proverbs 13:20); accountability curbs loose talk. 9. • Keep eternal perspective ‑ Remember that Jesus is “the faithful Witness” to every conversation (Revelation 1:5). 10. • Pray daily for a Spirit-tamed tongue ‑ “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips” (Psalm 141:3). Words That Heal, Not Harm • Encourage: Proverbs 16:24—“Pleasant words are a honeycomb.” • Comfort: Isaiah 50:4—“A word in season to him who is weary.” • Testify: 1 Peter 3:15—“Always be prepared to give an answer…with gentleness and respect.” Daily Checkup At day’s end ask: • Did my words today bring life or stir trouble? • Did I speak truth in love or mix in deceit and malice? • What change will I yield to the Spirit tomorrow? Guard the tongue, and trouble and malice lose their hiding place. |
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