Keep your mouth free of perversity;
keep corrupt talk far from your lips.
Proverbs 4:24
In Proverbs 4:24, we are urged to put away the perversity of the mouth and remove iniquity from our lips. This verse serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of maintaining purity and integrity in both our hearts and our words amidst the challenges of daily life.
Each day presents us with opportunities to allow negativity and unhealthy speech to infiltrate our lives. But God’s Word reminds us to follow the example of Jesus, who showed love and grace in all He said and did. By anchoring our identity in Him, we strive to align our thoughts and words with His truth and goodness.
As followers of Christ, we are called to guard our hearts diligently. By filling our minds with thoughts that are true, honorable, just, pure, and praiseworthy, we fortify ourselves against bitterness, envy, and malice. (Philippians 4:8). We must choose wisdom and intentionally cultivate a heart that bears good fruit, rejecting words that contaminate or harm others.
Our words possess immense power—they can build up or tear down, bless or curse, heal or harm. Therefore, let us seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit to exercise self-control over our speech. As Ephesians 4:29-31 advises, let all bitterness, rage, anger, brawling, and slander be removed from our lips.
Instead, let us speak words of love, hope, and affirmation, reflecting the goodness of our Creator. As we focus our attention on Him, may our hearts overflow with gratitude and our mouths become instruments of blessing and encouragement to those around us.
Today, let us choose to guard our hearts and minds, speaking words that reflect the life-giving truth of God’s Word. May we be bearers of good news, spreading His love and encouragement wherever we go.