CHALLENGING MYSELF THROUGH THE WORDS OF OTHERS

Proverbs 18:21 states that “death and life and in the power of the tongue”. Let’s face it, our tongue, the little “rudder” that James 3:4 speaks about has significant impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. I guess that for women especially, being the verbal creatures that we are, our tongue is likely the biggest challenge of overcoming temptation and weakness that we face. Speaking for myself, I can certainly attest to that fact. Those who guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity (Proverbs 21:23. It’s taken years of my life to submit to these words of wisdom from the Word to bridle my tongue on many occasions. Thankfully, age and growing in wisdom and long-fought practice has helped me overcome and gain more self-control in this battle but, the fight isn’t over, for the enemy of our souls knows just what “buttons” to push to trigger a flow of words that I may wish I hadn’t issued. That alone will help to keep me humble for the remaining years of my life! I encourage you to do a word study on words in the scripture. In fact, any topic you have issues with or questions about can be benefitted by simply researching through a word study. We perish for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6) so it’s ours for the taking if we avail ourselves of it and set aside time to learn truth ourselves.

I came across some cards I wrote out over 20 years ago with notes from something I read. Here is what I am still striving to practice myself:

Don’t make plans without consulting Yahweh (Hebrew name for the title “God”). Sin is not only actively committing evil deeds, but also passively failing to do what you know He wants you to do. Renounce strife; prefer others to yourself. Renounce rebellion; submit yourself to Yah. Be quick to confess sin; humble yourself. Renounce slander; speak highly of others. Avoid presumptuousness. Bridle your tongue. Draw near to Yahweh and He will draw near to you. Evaluate: in what areas do you claim faith while your actions declare unbelief” Acknowledge those areas. Decide to act on the faith you have. Practice today what you proclaim. That’s plenty to ponder. I’m thankful that His mercies are new every morning!