Keep Your Tongue From Evil

"My tongue shall speak of Your word, For all Your commandments are righteousness."

Psalms 119:172 NKJV

The words of the Psalm are a goal we should all strive for; that is why we let ourselves be inspired to reach, as soon as possible, that maturity which allows us to control our tongue—that small organ capable of great things and which can become a dangerous fire (James 3:5-6). If we could speak only words that can bridge a gap, extend a hand, warm the heart, and ensure no one feels forgotten, we would all live better lives. Words inspired by the Word of God should always come from our mouths. Unfortunately, it remains a difficult task to restrain one’s tongue from making comments and judgments that we would do well to avoid, especially when they concern matters unrelated to us. All the more so because words are fleeting; they are usually carried away by the wind and leave no concrete trace. Sometimes they weigh like boulders, are sharp as daggers, and cold as ice. Their purpose, at best, is to fulfill a duty. Otherwise, they serve to discriminate, offend, and hurt.

The words that get the most attention—whether because they’re ill-chosen or misunderstood—are those that fall under the umbrella of gossip. This is that inappropriate and indiscreet chatter aimed at casting someone in a bad light, practically the daily bread of many and the main fare of TV schedules and social media posts. Sometimes all it would take is a little courage to be honest—and thus to tell someone they’re wrong, that things aren’t as they claim—rather than fueling the gossip. At the root of gossip lies something important to relationships. The problem arises, however, when these intimate “secrets” are flaunted to others with a certain pleasure, almost with relish: “The words of a slanderer are like choice morsels; they go down to the innermost parts of the belly” (Proverbs 26:22). Generally speaking, it is believed that the most gossipy people are those who have an unsatisfying emotional life. In these cases, slander becomes an opportunity to compensate for other shortcomings, as well as to vent resentment. Yet, “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may impart grace to those who hear” (Ephesians 4:29).

In the collection of the Psalms we find the greatest number of instructions regarding the use of the tongue—the very tongue we use to praise our God, but which unfortunately sometimes becomes a sharp razor (52:2), a sword, or a bow that shoots bitter arrows (64:3). I make my own and share the psalmist’s exhortation: “I will watch my ways, so that I may not sin with my tongue; I will keep my mouth under control while the wicked stands before me” (39:1). Even when you might have the slightest reason to hurt with your tongue and feel justified in retaliating, remember that “the mouth of the righteous utters wisdom, and his tongue speaks of justice” (37:30). The apostle Paul advised speaking only if we have a word that builds up, responds to the other person’s need, and is capable of imparting grace. When we find ourselves listening to gossip, let us not get caught up in it. To discourage its spread, it is wise to change the subject, or if possible, highlight the positive qualities of the person others are speaking ill of. Let us never forget that gossip is not only annoying; it can do a great deal of harm. Let us make David’s prayer our own: “Keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking deceit” (Psalm 34:13).

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Weekly Bible Reading Plan #23

June 1, 2 Chronicles 15–16; John 12:27–50,

June 2, 2 Chronicles 17–18; John 13:1–20

June 3, 2 Chronicles 19–20; John 13:21–38

June 4, 2 Chronicles 21–22; John 14

June 5, 2 Chronicles 23–24; John 15

June 6, 2 Chronicles 25–27; John 16

June 7, 2 Chronicles 28–29; John 17