Mouthing Off

Ecclesiastes 5:1-2

"Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; and draw near to hear rather than to give the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that they do evil.

    2      Do not be rash with your mouth, 

          And let not your heart utter anything hastily before God. 

          For God is in heaven, and you on earth; 

          Therefore let your words be few."

The fool tries to assert himself with his words, even over God. He thinks God will hear him for his many words. But all the words in the world won’t cover up your sin. Some try to make up for their sin with works, others try words. We try this with people, too. We try to assert our will, control or manipulate others, with words. But Proverbs gives us a godly picture. 17:27 - He who has knowledge spares his words.  10:19 - In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who restrains his lips is wise. 29:11 - A fool vents all his feelings, But a wise man holds them back.

Young people can easily dishonor their parents with their quick words, but it is humility to listen. There is a time to speak, to give input, to assert. But if you find yourself talking a lot to get out of trouble, or get your way, or even just to explain yourself, there may be a character problem beyond just a talkative personality. Let us remember the power of the tongue to damage and destroy. James tells us “we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man…. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! ⁶ And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity.” (3:2, 5b-6a)

9/9/12