The Doors of My Lips

Psalm 141:3  Set a watch, O Lord, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips

We are often tempted to speak our mind, not realizing that the words we say can be cutting or hurtful. Speaking harshly and vehemently in anger is not consistent with one who is filled with the Holy Spirit and manifesting the fruits of the Spirit. We are creatures of emotion and there are things that strike a cord in our hearts that may cause us to demonstrate indignation. The classic example is the words Jesus spoke when He saw that the House of God was turned into a den of thieves and a place to sell merchandise for profit. His words were filled with emotion and passion as He turned over the merchants tables. I become indignant when someone lies to my face and the temptation is to lash out with ridicule and disapproval in a manner that is self servicing and unkind. Yes, such behavior needs to be dealt with in a way that results in a positive outcome, but often many are outranged because they have lost control of the situation. Dealing with our reactions and saying words that we would regret later can be done when we allow the Holy Spirit to put a guard on our lips. Seeking wisdom from above before we speak or react to a situation that hits us the wrong way. Human emotions are real, but so is God, and He is able to set a watch before our mouth, and speak only those words that would please Him.