Taming the Tongue

I have heard before that our tongue is the most power weapon we have. Do you agree? 

I bet you have also heard the saying "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt!" 

Let me just say, I surely beg to differ!

 We've all been there before in the heat of the moment when we say something out of anger that we really don't mean only to later regret. Proverbs 13:3 (NLT) says "Those who control their tongue will have a long life; opening your mouth can ruin everything." 

I know what you are thinking. How on earth am I suppose to tame my tongue? What if I just say it in my head so the other person doesn't technically hear it? Let me stop you right there. Maybe you didn't say it out loud, but you still thought it and that is still just as hurtful believe it or not. There are plenty ways to tame your tongue that doesn't involve having to literally bite your tongue to keep you from saying it although that can help. When in the heat of the moment, just stop. Take a deep breath. Exhale in. Exhale out. Feeling better yet? If not, that's okay. Not every person is the same so that technique might not work for you, but everyone does have one thing that can calm them and help them relax. Perhaps a sport such as baseball, or basketball. It may even be running. *Fun fact* Running has actually been proven help release stress.Next time, you're frustrated with someone or just anything in general lace up those shoes and go for a jog! Others may take hot showers to relax. Some even plug in their iPod and start a major jam session. Find what is best for YOU. 

If music is what helps you relax, then be careful what you listen to. I remember talking to one my youth leaders and we started talking about the things we hear day to day begin to be things we think about. For example, the more we are around people who curse, the more we think about it making it easier for it to slip out of your own mouth or even THINK it. 

Do you like music? Of course you do! Who doesn't? :) Do you listen to rap or country? How about worship songs? In today's world, it is hard to find good music with positive and uplifting words. Some of my favorite christian artist are Christy Nockels, Lecrae, Britt Nicole, Phillips Craig & Dean, Chris Tomlin, and the list could go on and on! Fill your ears with more artist like these to help prevent secular words or thoughts from slipping out when in the heat of the moment or just in general.  

Did you know that the band Building 429 actually got their band name from the verse below? How cool is that? :)

Ephesians 4:29 (NLT) "Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them."

I absolutely LOVE this verse! 

Do me a favor and listen to the song Words by Hawk Nelson. :) The link is below!
http://youtu.be/anVweXDcxhA

My goal for you over the next few days is to start taming your tongue and see what a difference that makes in your relationships with your family, and friends. 

Psalm 141:3 (NLT) "Take control of what I say, O Lord, and guard my lips."

P.S.

Be sure to follow the twitter account @NotABasicGirl_ and send in prayer requests or other topics you have. Or you can email me @ annamarie1521@gmail.com :)