“The heart of the righteous ponders how to answer, but the mouth of the wicked pours out evil things.” Proverbs 15:28
People always want to control something - pollutions, guns, traffic, nature - what OTHERS say and do. In the end we never do a very good job of it.
Solomon often talks about controlling the tongue. In Matthew 12 Jesus said we would have to account for every careless word. James says the tongue is small but mighty - with it we bless God and curse those made in His image.
Do I hit the mark perfectly all the time in regards to what I say or how I say it? Nope. I find, however, if I take a breath before answering, take time to read my comment before posting online, or think about the possible impact of my words, what I say is often different than what I would have blurted out. And when I fail, well, there is Jesus through whom I have forgiveness - and man do I need it.
Prayer: Lord God, you have given mankind the greatest power on earth - the power of speech. Along with the heart and the mind it can do great things, but it also has the potential for great evil. Help me to use this great gift according to your will - to praise and bless you and to speak words of kindness and truth to others. May my words be a salve to others rather than a poison. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.