Day 20 – Read Proverbs 20
Taming the Tongue
Have you ever been upset at a person or situation, but were able to keep quiet in the moment, and then later were glad you didn’t respond? Proverbs commends you by saying, “Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling.” Our tongue is a small part of the body, but it can become untamable if we're not careful. Here are four ways to T.A.M.E. our tongues and train them for encouraging others.
1. Temper your words.
Temper can also mean soften. We can soften our tongues' edges, so our friends, family, and co-workers receive a blessing. A powerful verse in James 3:7-8 says, “People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue” (NLT). This truth helps us temper our speech.
2. Avoid an angry tone.
A wise pastor told me to attack problems and not people when tempted by anger. We know plunging into anger is foolish. When Proverbs 20:3 says, “Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor…,” it means there is no shame in refusing to fight (NLT). Attacking problems and loving people help conquer the rough edge of the tongue.
3. Mine valuable insights.
“Wise words are more valuable than much gold and many rubies” (Proverbs 20:15 NLT). Therefore, the ability to communicate is more valuable than the most expensive gold or gems. Wise, godly communication is more precious than diamonds.
Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling. – Proverbs 20:3 NLT
4. Encourage others.
I became a pastor because a college professor encouraged me years ago. Communicating encouraging words is life-changing. In Ephesians 4:29, Paul writes, “…Let everything you say be good and helpful so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (NLT). I now use phrases like: “God is working in you,” “I believe in you,” “You are so gifted,” and, “I love you no matter what” to give hope and uplift others.
Daily Doses of Wisdom’s Treasures
When our tongues fail and even hurt those closest to us, Jesus is our hope. He died on the cross for every sinful and careless word we would ever speak. His love and grace extend to every tongue tantrum (Romans 5:20). Let’s communicate His love and grace because someone needs to be encouraged by your words today!
Dig Deeper
1. Since no one can tame the tongue, how can you yield to the Holy Spirit to flavor your speech with grace in future conversations?
2. In what specific ways can you use your speech to encourage others today?
