In what ways can we guard against speaking maliciously, as warned in Ezekiel 35:12? Setting the Scene “Then you will know that I, the LORD, have heard every contemptuous word you uttered against the mountains of Israel…” (Ezekiel 35:12). Edom’s scornful words seemed harmless to them, but God heard every syllable. Their speech revealed hearts filled with pride, hostility, and indifference to God’s covenant people. The warning is timeless: the Lord listens when we speak, and malicious words never go unnoticed by Him. The Danger of Malicious Speech - Words can wound as surely as weapons (Proverbs 12:18). - They expose an underlying disrespect for God’s image‐bearers. - Unchecked, they cultivate bitterness, break fellowship, and invite divine discipline (Matthew 12:36). Why God Takes Our Words Seriously - They reveal our heart’s true condition (Luke 6:45). - They shape the atmosphere around us—“Death and life are in the power of the tongue” (Proverbs 18:21). - They either honor or dishonor His name, because we speak as His representatives (Colossians 3:17). Practical Ways to Guard Our Tongues 1. Daily Heart Check - Begin the day with Psalm 139:23-24, asking God to search motives before words form. - Remember that malicious speech often springs from unresolved anger or envy; confess these quickly (1 John 1:9). 2. Slow the Pace - “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger” (James 1:19). - Pausing even five seconds before responding allows the Spirit to filter rash impulses. 3. Set a Verbal Filter - Use Ephesians 4:29 as a criterion: Will this comment build up or tear down? If it harms, silence is safer. - Employ the classic “think” test: Is it True, Helpful, Inspiring, Necessary, Kind? 4. Choose Edifying Alternatives - Replace criticism with blessing (Romans 12:14). - Convert gossip into intercession—pray for the person instead of repeating their faults. 5. Surround Yourself with Wholesome Speech - Spend time with believers who model gracious words (Proverbs 13:20). - Limit media and music that normalize sarcasm or slander. 6. Invite Accountability - Give a trusted friend permission to flag unwholesome talk (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). - Celebrate progress together; correction is easier in a context of encouragement. 7. Memorize and Meditate - Storing Scripture equips the Spirit to bring truth to mind at the critical moment (Psalm 119:11). Scripture to Memorize and Meditate On - Proverbs 18:21: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” - Psalm 141:3: “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips.” - Ephesians 4:29: “Let no unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building up the one in need and bringing grace to those who listen.” - James 3:9-10: “With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men… My brothers, this should not be!” Encouragement for Daily Practice Guarding our speech is an ongoing battle, but God provides the grace and the tools. As we submit our tongues to Him, He transforms them from instruments of harm into channels of blessing. Each surrendered word becomes a testimony that the Lord—not malice—rules our hearts. |
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