“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison,” James 3:8.

How many times in life have we had to admit we shouldn’t have said something? As much as we desire to say only good and wise words, we can still be reckless in saying things that are better left unsaid. “Out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh, “ Luke 6:45.

Today’s key verse states that no man can tame the tongue. It is unruly and full of poison. But in reality, this is not a problem of the tongue but of the heart. The tongue and the heart are so potent that they can quickly kill relationships, destroy families, end marriages, cause children to rebel or even to take one’s own life. However, God wants us to use our tongues and hearts to encourage, strengthen and exhort. “If we can encourage others, we should encourage them. If we can give, we should be generous. If we are leaders, we should do out best. If we are good to others, we should do it cheerfully,” Romans 12:8.

It’s important that we operate in the wisdom of God because it makes us pure and gentle. “If God’s wisdom makes us pure, peaceable, and gentle let us,” James 3:17. Our words must be pure and peaceful as the word of God. Refrain from speaking words that you know will wound others and consider yourself before you speak.

Today, hold your tongue from gossip. Today, hold your tongue from everything untrue. Today, hold your tongue from complaining. Today, hold your tongue from anything impure. If you want your speech to be clean and pure, salvation from God is your only cure. Always remember that death and life are in the power of the tongue and they that love it shall eat of the fruit thereof. Speak words with your heart that will build a person and never destroy them.

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit,” Proverbs 18:21.