These Aren't My Words

If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that theyobey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips! If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless. Death and life are in the power of the tongue.

I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless word they speak. Bless and do not curse. A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion. Let there be no filthiness nor foolish talk nor crude joking. Whoever restrains his lips is prudent. Let your speech always be gracious,seasoned with salt. Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body. No human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

BUT. The old has passed away; behold the new has come. The Father… gives me what to say and what to speak… What I say, therefore, I say as the Father has told me. The word of God is living and active, sharper than any two-edged sword… discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart. God’s word shall not return to [him] empty, but shall accomplish that which[he] purposed. He whom God has sent utters the words of God, for God gives the Spirit without measure. Walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.

Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path. What comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Out of the abundance of theheart the mouth speaks. Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.