“Do not let your mouth cause your flesh to sin.” ~Ecclesiastes 5:6

When we have a healthy respect and reverence for the Lord, we will learn to watch what we say. “Like golden apples in setting of silver” (Proverbs 25:11) are words carefully chosen and spoken accurately and at the right time. So many of us experience responsibilities that can weigh heavily on our minds and on our spirits. It is easy to rush into speech without considering what we are saying.

We have all heard the saying, “Fools rush in where angels fear to tread.” Often, what we allow to come out of our mouths are examples of extreme foolishness! We must train ourselves to think before speaking and always give serious consideration to the outcome and the effect of our words. Rushing into speech is unwise, and “small talk” can cause big problems. Random ramblings can be dangerous and lead to foolish conversation.

Lady Bird Johnson is quoted as saying, “I regret often that I have spoken, never that I have been silent.” That is a good statement to remember. King David prayed and asked the Lord to keep watch over his mouth. He said “set a guard over my mouth, O Lord, keep a watch over the door of my lips.” Also, in Psalm 139:23-24, he said, “Search me, O God, and know my heart; try me, and know my anxieties; and see if there is any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” This should be our daily prayer.

We can and we should ask God for wisdom and articulation. He can cause us to be a blessing and also to be effective for the Kingdom of Heaven. In this troubled world, the only way to successfully walk in the peace of God with the “mind of Christ” is to renew our spirits daily with prayer asking for God’s help and guidance, and looking to His word for direction. His presence washes away the stain of sin and the cares of life. Even in the middle of intense stress, He will bring to us comfort, strength and His peace, if we will trust Him for help.

Golden apples in settings of silver are beautiful and pleasant to look at, but more than that, those apples are deliciously refreshing. It is so much better for our health and spiritual well being to think before we speak, and to speak refreshing words of life, hope and blessing. Ask the Lord to help direct your conversation and as much as it is possible, choose to surround yourself with positive encouraging influences. And, make this your meditation:

“My mouth will speak in praise of the Lord.” ~Psalm 145:21

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