Did you ever have your mouth washed out with soap when you were a child? I don’t think it’s a practice many still take part in these days, but I remember the taste of “Safeguard” bar soap very well. I think for my kids it was “Dial” liquid soap.
These days are also rampant with accounts of bullying and the negative effects that result.
We must really be careful what comes out of our mouths. Verse 6 says, “ The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.” There is power in the tongue!
How do we tame our tongue? It’s not easy. Once something passes our lips, it’s all over. We can’t take it back. Not even saying “I’m sorry” can truly take away the hurt, shame, or guilt that may ensue.
So what should come out of our mouths? Ephesians 4:29 says, “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Another good passage is Colossians 4:6, “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Take a moment to let those two verses speak to your heart.
When we praise our Father, our mouth does what it is meant to do! We were designed to worship our Father, the creator of the universe. When joyful praise crosses our lips, our heart also sings, our spirits are lifted and it is something we can all do together. Harmony of spirit gives us life! We are at last giving pleasure to God.
Can you have a more thankful heart? Can you sing praise more regularly?
Let’s pray. Father, please forgive me for the hurtful things that come out of my mouth. As soon as the words out come, I realize they are negative and not helpful. Cleanse my heart and mind so that only thoughts that are uplifting and good fill my head. Help me be a light to others, reflecting your goodness and mercy. May praise always be on my lips for you great and worthy to be praised. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
