Tongue In Control

The ultimate test of self-control is the control of the tongue. A live a life that pleases God, we must learn to control the tongue. Careless and abusive words can destroy others. Lying is sin (Ephesians 4:25). Gossip and slander are sins (Ephesians 4:31: James 4:11) Angry words and name-calling are sins (Ephesians 4:29-32). Words that put others down are sins (Colossians 3:8).

The question then, is this: If self-control is so important and not impossible, then how do I have it?

Ultimately, self-control is about being controlled by Christ. When“the love of Christ controls us”, we can experience the freedom to exercise self-control, when we find strength in the strength of another - Jesus Christ!

14 For the love of Christ controls us, because we have concluded this: that one has died for all, therefore all have died; 15 and he died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised. 16 From now on, therefore, we regard no one according to the flesh. Even though we once regarded Christ according to the flesh, we regard him thus no longer. 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come. (2 Corinthians 5:14-17)

True self-control is not about bringing ourselves under our own control, but submitting self under Christ-control. Kingdom self-control begins with the change of our sinful nature, an exchanged for Christ’s nature.

Prayer: Father, I know my tongue sometimes gets ahead of my mind and heart. I am sorry for words I have spoken in anger, haste, or in gossip. Holy Spirit, prompt me when I am about to speak without thinking and to check my heart. May my words always bring consolation to those in sorrow and guidance to those in need. Let me be an instrument of Your goodness. In The powerful name of Jesus, I pray, Amen!