What’s the problem for you? Is it gossip? You just can’t resist passing on a juicy story? The fact that it is true doesn’t stop it from being gossip.
Or maybe your problem is anger. Do you pop off at people who make you angry, letting harsh and hurtful words fly like weapons? Are they directed at your children? Your spouse? Your employees?
Or are you a liar? Is it hard for you to resist making yourself look better, embellishing you to make you seem smarter, richer, better, more spiritual? Words are powerful.
Proverbs 10:19 warns us, In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise.
The following are some of the ways the Bible addresses speaking evil:
- Psalm 34:13 Keep your tongue from evil, And your lips from speaking deceit.
- Psalm 15:1-3 LORD, who may abide in Your tabernacle? Who may dwell in Your holy hill?He who walks uprightly, And works righteousness, And speaks the truth in his heart; He who does not backbite with his tongue, Nor does evil to his neighbor, Nor does he take up a reproach against his friend.
- Psalm 50:20 You sit and speak against your brother; You slander your own mother’s son.
- Proverbs 11:13 A talebearer reveals secrets, But he who is of a faithful spirit conceals a matter.
- Proverbs 20:19 He who goes about as a talebearer reveals secrets; Therefore do not associate with one who flatters with his lips.
This week consider your words. Where is your sin? Of what man or woman are you speaking evil? Identification is the key to changing the behavior. Remember, you have the ability. With Christ, all things are possible.
