“When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is prudent.” Proverbs 10:19.
Today is my very first best friend’s birthday. Her name is Lori, I’ve known her all my life, she is a part of this group. She is the first person who ever asked me to sleep over at her house. I don’t even know if we were in school yet when this happened, probably. I was so excited when she called to ask, I hung up the phone on her. She called me back and told me I wasn’t supposed to hang up the phone. One of my favorite memories.
She is a woman of not many words. I have always been amazed at how smart she is. She always had better grades than me in school, things seemed to come easier to her. She doesn’t let her mouth get her into trouble like I do. She is much better at controlling her lips.
I am learning though. I’ve finally learned you can’t get into trouble with what you don’t say. If it’s something that needs to be said, God will give you another chance to say it. But if you’re not sure, it’s best not to say anything at all. Even a fool seems wise when they keep their mouth shut (Proverbs 17:28). There are times, the only way I can control my lips is to physically put my hand over my mouth to keep myself from speaking.
This is incredibly effective in an argument, when emotions are running high and words just come spilling out of your mouth. I’ve learned to walk away until I cool down enough to be able to control my lips. Until I can say things that are uplifting and encouraging, instead of tearing the person down (1 Thess. 5:11). Usually it’s those closest to us that arouse the kind of anger which can get us into trouble with our words. Once the words are out, you can’t take them back. But if you learn ways to keep them in before they escape, you will be much more prudent. You will save yourself from trouble.
