Too Many Words

In the multitude of words sin is not lacking,But he who restrains his lips is wise.

Proverbs 10:19 (NKJV)

Here’s a song with a catchy tune by Joe Jones written in 1958. You can google to listen. It goes like this . . .

You talk too much, you worry me to death,

You talk too much, you even worry my pet,

You just talk, you talk too much.

Ladies, we need to get a grip on this. Some things just don’t need to be said. If you have a tendency to speak everything that crosses your mind, pause before you speak. Ask yourself, “Would I want this said to me?” Some use the excuse, “I just have to be honest.” There is a time to speak and there is a time to refrain from speaking. If someone is having a bad hair day or they have gained some weight, your honesty is not kind or appreciated either.

Wives, in the heat of a discussion with your husband, your words can go south real fast. Remember what Proverbs 29:11 says, “A fool gives full vent to his anger, but a wise [woman] keeps [herself] under control” (NIV). Character assassination and belittling will never solve the issue. Some words are hard to forget once they are spoken.

And here’s a prayer that can set us straight: “Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O LORD, my strength and my Redeemer” (Psalm 19:14, NKJV).

We’ll close with the New Living Translation: “Don’t talk too much, for it fosters sin. Be sensible and turn off the flow!” (Proverbs 10:19).

Make It Personal . . . Live It Out!

Benjamin Franklin said, “A slip of the foot you may soon recover, but a slip of the tongue you may never get over.” As we have looked at the need to tame our tongues, has it brought to mind something you have said that you regret? Have you blown off steam in a moment of anger or been too harsh and critical and saw it hurt someone’s feelings? That is the Holy Spirit giving you a “holy tug” of conviction. There is no time like the present to make it right. Pick up the phone or write a sweet note today. If your heart is right, God will give you good words and go before you with grace.

One Year Bible Reading

Leviticus 22:17–23:44; Mark 9:30–10:12; Psalm 44:1-8; Proverbs 10:19