Do We Need a Bridle on Our Tongue

N.T. #141 "Do We Need a Bridle on Our Tongue?"

Sept. 4. 2023

Matthew 12-Part 15

For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned. (verse 37)

LET IT GLOW

When a horse is bridled, the rider has control of its turns, go and stop. the horse can honor its rider by obeying it or go its own way, disobeying its commands, and have a sore mouth in the process. Aren't we like that horse? We need to control our tongue watching our words. How important is it?

When we open our mouth, we reveal what's deep down inside-whether good or evil. Therefore, we need to watch our mouth. God is tape-recording our words, and we will have to account for every careless one. (verse 36) The way to tame our tongue is to address our heart. And the way to address our heart is to devote it to the King's agenda. (Tony Evans)

According to James 1:26, we need to bridle our tongue. If we don't control it, then our religion is in vain. His religion is false, empty, hypocritical. He deceives his own heart. 

Life and death are in the power of the tongue. (Prov. 18:21)

For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile. (1 Peter 3:10)

Words determine a person's destiny. Our words either justify or condemn us, according to our key verse. We either profess Jesus Christ is our Savior and Lord or we deny Him. 

Are our words honoring Jesus or not? Something to think about.

LET IT GROW

Kind, gracious, loving, edifying, profitable words will testify for us and justify us in the day of judgment.

Ugly, dirty, filthy, angry, spiteful, gossiping, grumbling, murmuring words will testify against us and condemn us in the day of judgment. (The Preacher's Outline & Sermon Bible)

Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another. (Romans 14:19)

Let's build up each other, encourage one another, be sensitive to our weaker brothers and sisters. Build up God's work and workers, not tear them down with criticism.

LET IT GO 

Help us listen with two ears, Lord Jesus.

May we become slow to speak.

Cleanse my heart O God, make it ever true, cleanse my heart O God, may I be like You.