Tongue Test

Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up, according to their needs, so that it may benefit those who listen. Ephesians 4:29

Ouch! I must confess: what comes out of my mouth does not always live up to this standard. 

This has been one of those verses that we have had the kids memorize for years. Having just had to use it in a correction/instruction session with one of the kids, the Spirit asked me to examine the words and tone of my morning. 

Yup! He had me dead to rights. I was impatient this morning. It showed in my tone. I had already apologized and asked forgiveness, but He just reminded me how prone I am to stumble in this area. I need to be modeling, in ever increasing obedience, what I ask of the kids. 

He is so patiently, consistently insistent on me learning this.  Until it becomes part of my nature, replacing that part of my sin nature, I will have to continue to submit to His correction/instruction sessions for me. The more attention I pay to this area, the more quickly He can "reprogram" my thoughts, words, and actions.

Praise God!! He is not going to allow me to ignore something this important, because it will bring Him glory. It will also bless those I am called to serve. 

Lord, 
Please help me be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. Help me speak everything in Love for the purpose of reconciliation, not condemnation. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be pleasing in Your sight, Oh Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer. Thank you for Your consistent, loving correction and instruction. May I reflect that to my children.