I Need a Muzzle

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs,that it benefit this who listen. (Ephesians 4:29)

What would happen if I lived by this one verse alone?  I wonder how much my surroundings would change.  How would it change the mood of my conversations?  How would it enhance my relationships?

I have looked this up in the Greek to understand the context a little better and I’ve found that this is something that is to be actively present in my life from now until eternity.  So much so that I am commanded to do so.  It is absolutely imperative that I keep tight reign over my tongue.

Oh, how often words slip out that do not edify fellow believers and encourage those around me.  I need to have God put an old fashioned muzzle on my mouth at times and keep it from speaking anything that could potentially harm or discourage anyone around me.

I said, “I will watch my ways and keep my tongue from sin; I will put a muzzle on my mouth as long as the wicked are in my presence.” (Psalm 39:1)

How many of life’s conflicts would disappear if we all just kept a tighter reign on our tongues?  I for one hope and pray that God will keep my big mouth shut if I can’t utter something kind, encouraging, loving, and peaceful.  I pray that my words will build the body of Christ up, not tear them down.  I hope that today will be different.  I hope that I will have a tighter reign on my tongue today and only use it to honor my Father in Heaven.

Lord, please examine my heart today.  I pray that You will put a muzzle on my mouth and give me the strength to stay quiet if I have nothing nice to say.  I pray that my words will be edifying to the Body of Christ and that I will live to lift the name of Jesus high.  I pray that my words will honor You today and every day!

Keeping a Tighter Reign on my Tongue,