Some of us often find ourselves regretting what we have said and wishing to take back the words that we have uttered. Indeed, animals and some violent humans can be tamed, but not the tongue. The Bible book of James says, "But the tongue, not one of mankind can get it tamed. An unruly injurious thing, it is full of death-dealing poison."
Nevertheless, we can gain more control over this small body member. Here are some Bible principles that can help us.
Proverbs 10:19
"In the abundance of words there does not fail to be transgression, but the one keeping his lips in check is acting discreetly."
The more we talk, the more we make mistakes. So it's wise to always "keep our lips in check" or think before we speak.
James 1:19
"Be swift about hearing, slow about speaking, slow about wrath."
We should listen closely to what others say and show that we are genuinely interested and respectful. If someone hurts or provokes us with thoughtless words, we must try to be "slow about wrath" by not reacting in kind. And if we find it hard to be slow about wrath, it's helpful to pray to God for his holy spirit's fruit of self-control.
Proverbs 25:15
"A mild tongue itself can break a bone."
Mildness has strength. It can break a bone in the sense that if we answer mildly to those who oppose us and speak bad about us, we may be able to overcome their hard and inflexible opposition and may win their heart.
So these are the "wisdom from above" (James 3:17) that can help us speak words that are dignifying, endearing and upbuilding.
Source:
Awake magazine, November 2010
