“The wicked is snared by the transgression of his lips: but the just shall come out of trouble” (Proverbs 12:13).
We have all heard the expressions; “He dug a hole for himself…” and “He made his bed, now let him lie in it.” These colloquialisms emphasize the consequences of our actions. When we shoot off at the mouth and fail to think before we speak, we lay a snare and entrap ourselves with our own words. As boys, most of us tried to talk our way out of punishment when we did something that deserved it. We often try to do the same with God. We attempt to make deals or convince Him as to why we deserve to be delivered from our present circumstances. In reality, all we have to do is trust God to deliver us. “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished” (II Peter 2:9). A large portion of our struggles and temptations could be avoided if we learned to keep our mouths shut. We bring most of our problems on ourselves by confessing negative thoughts, complaining and speaking from the flesh. When we are not led by the Holy Spirit, we are liable to say anything. The tongue seems to have a mind of its own and must be kept under subjection to the Spirit. If we allow our tongue free rein, it will continue to ensnare us and prevent us from becoming godly men. Listen to your conversation today. Are there unwholesome comments, negative confessions, or complaining statements that would have been better left unsaid? Be aware of what you speak and ask God to control your tongue.
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