Guarding Our Words
In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise. My beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. • He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. • If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. • For by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned. • Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips. Christ . . . suffered for us, leaving us an example, that you should follow His steps: “who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth”; who, when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to Him who judges righteously. • Consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. In their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God.”
—C.H. Spurgeon, Morning & Evening
Scripture reminds us again and again that our words have power—to heal or to harm, to build up or to tear down. Wisdom often begins with restraint: being swift to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Jesus modeled this perfectly. Though He suffered deeply and faced hostility, “no deceit was found in His mouth,” and He chose not to retaliate. Instead, He entrusted Himself to God, who judges righteously.
In moments of stress, pain, or conflict, it’s tempting to lash out or let frustration spill over. But when we ask God to “set a guard over our mouth,” we create space for His Spirit to guide our responses. In recovery, relationships, and everyday life, choosing words carefully can protect our peace, preserve trust, and point others toward the grace we’ve received. —DH
—David Hoskins, Founder & Care Guide, Sanctuary Clinics