The Vile, Corrupt, Perverse Mouth Series

Verse: Psalm 141:3, Proverbs 18:7, Matthew 12:36-37

We examine the concept of the froward mouth, described in Scripture as vile, corrupt, and perverse. Let's explore what the Bible says about the power of our words and how we can tame our tongues.

In Psalm 141:3, David prays, "Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips." Why? Because our words have the power to:

• Harm others and ourselves (Proverbs 18:7)

• Corrupt and deceive (Matthew 12:36-37)

• Reflect our hearts and relationship with God (Matthew 15:18-20)

We must recognize the destructive potential of our words and ask God to:

• Tame our tongues (James 1:26)

• Transform our speech to build up, not tear down (Ephesians 4:29)

• Use our words to bless and honor Him (Psalm 19:14)

As we commit to growing in our faith through daily reading and prayer, we'll find ourselves empowered by the Holy Spirit to resist sin. Our words have the power to either build up or tear down the emotional and spiritual well-being of those we care about.

Let's think before we speak, recognizing that careless words can damage relationships and even destroy them. The Bible warns that we'll be held accountable for every thoughtless word we speak (Matthew 12:34-37). Instead, let's choose to speak life-giving words that bring hope, encouragement, and love. Let's use our words to uplift and support others, just as Paul encourages us to do in Ephesians 4:29. When we speak with grace and kindness, we bring life and blessing to those around us.

May we bridle our tongues and speak life, reflecting the love and grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.