A Prayer to Tame Your Tongue
By Victoria Riollano
“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.” – Proverbs 12:18
I used to be reckless.
After years of being bullied in middle school for my height, looks, and high-pitched voice, I learned that my greatest weapon was my voice. I could stab with sarcasm and punch with passive-aggressiveness. Left on my own devices, I could cause more damage with just a few words than most could cause with a fist fight. I had become so good at being clever, before long I was no longer fun to bully. Unfortunately, my quick tongue didn’t end on the school playground. I carried this witty humor into the marketplace, my marriage, motherhood, and ministry. Without my tongue being tamed, I caused many tears and hurt others for a good laugh. I had become the bully and torturer through the power of my words.
The Bible speaks of the damage the tongue can cause.
“The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.” – Proverbs 18:21
There is simply no way around it. We can use our tongues to build, or we can use them to curse. We can use them to discourage or encourage. Our mouths can bring speak wells of truth or torment. In James, the effect of the tongue is described as a spark that can create a wildfire. If we aren’t careful, one poor choice of words, can lead to many more, and leave many damaged. We see this so often with gossip, slander, belittling others, and bullying.
Today, the Lord wants to challenge us to use words to encourage, uplift, restore, applaud, appreciate, and honor one another. Our tongues can bring life and help remind people of how good God really is. May we never get so overwhelmed, irritated, or angry that we forget the power of using our words to bring hope and healing.
Let’s pray.
Lord, I ask that you forgive me for every time I have dishonored you and those you have created with my words. God, I ask that you alert me when I am being hurtful. Show me how to use my mouth to bless and not curse. Teach me how to love people well and help them to know who you are. May my mouth be filled with testimonies, grace, and compassion. I thank you for your patience with me and ask that you would give me wisdom on when to speak and when to be silent. I thank you for your mercy toward me in this area. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
