We’ve talked about the power of words, thinking before you speak, and slips of the tongue in the past, but the back-to-school season is a good time to remind our children–and ourselves–what the Bible has to say about taming our tongues. When I think of this topic, my mind immediately goes to the New Testament book of James. We find two important verses there:

1:26 – If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.

3:8 – But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.

Proverbs also has some wise words about our tongues:

10:19 – In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.

21:23 – Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles.

In Psalm 141:3, David asks God to “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; Keep watch over the door of my lips.”

As our children head back to school, where they will be meeting new people and forging and renewing friendships, we should take a moment to remind them how dangerous our tongues can be; that it is not right for us to bless and curse with the same mouth (James 3:9-10) and that “Death and life are in the power of the tongue…” (Proverbs 18:21). Our words can hurt or they can heal; they can tear down or they can build up. It is difficult to restrain our tongues at times. But with God’s help, we will be the good person who brings forth good.

For more of what the Bible says about taming the tongue, visit http://www.openbible.info/topics/taming_your_tongue