The Bible is clear about how we’re to speak and not speak. But I’m especially struck by Psalm 12:4. It’s talking about those who are not faithful to the Lord and who use flattery and lies to get their own way. They say:
“‘Our lips are our own; who is lord over us?'”
Do you ever brush aside the conviction of the Holy Spirit about your speech because it’s uncomfortable? I do.
When we do that, we’re saying, “I’m my own boss. I can say what I want, how I want, and when I want.” In those moments, our attitude is like the one expressed in Psalm 12:4. “My lips are my own. Who is lord over me?”
Oh, God, forgive us!
Look at the contrast of God’s words in Psalm 12:6-7.
“The words of the Lord are pure words;
As silver tried in a furnace on the earth, refined seven times.
You, oh Lord, will keep them.”
Unlike our own words, God’s words are pure and always true because He is holy. His heart is pure. We can count on every word He has spoken to us!
If it’s a promise, He will fulfill it.
If it’s a command, He will hold us accountable to it.
If it’s information, it is trustworthy.
God’s Word – all of it – is “profitable for teaching, reproof, correction, and training in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).
His words are
- gracious (Colossians 4:6)
- fitly spoken (Proverbs 25:11)
- a continual source of rich nourishment and life (Proverbs 15:4)
- build us up (Ephesians 4:29)
- fit the occasion (Ephesians 4:29), and
- give grace to those who hear them (Ephesians 4:29).
Oh, Lord, may my words be a reflection of Yours!
Not only can we look to Him as our example of how to use our words, we can enjoy the benefit of His words any time! What a gift! What a treasure He’s given us in this book – the Bible!
