21 Day Prayer ChallengeSample

Day 15- Power Over My Tongue 

• God's Promise

We all fail in many areas, but especially with our words. Yet if we're able to bridle the words we say we are powerful enough to control ourselves in every way, and that means our character is mature and fully developed. Horses have bits and bridles in their mouths so that we can control and guide their large body. And the same with mighty ships, though they are massive and driven by fierce winds, yet they are steered by a tiny rudder at the direction of the person at the helm. And so the tongue is a small part of the body yet it carries great power! Just think of how a small flame can set a huge forest ablaze. And the tongue is a fire! It can be compared to the sum total of wickedness and is the most dangerous part of our human body. It corrupts the entire body and is a hellish flame! It releases a fire that can burn throughout the course of human existence. For every wild animal on earth including birds, creeping reptiles, and creatures of the sea and land have all been overpowered and tamed by humans, but the tongue is not able to be tamed. It's a fickle, unrestrained evil that spews out words full of toxic poison! We use our tongue to praise God our Father and then turn around and curse a person who was made in his very image! Out of the same mouth we pour out words of praise one minute and curses the next. My brothers and sisters, this should never be! James 3:2-10 (TPT) 

• Today’s Thought

I'm sure we've all heard the famous poem, "sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me?" Unfortunately, that statement is not true! The fact is, words can cut like a knife. According to the Apostle James, our tongues direct where our lives go. They can destroy what we have, and they can display who we are. Whether our words are intentional or unintentional, the negative impact words can have on someone can change the trajectory of their lives. As James reminds us, "this should never be!"  

Rather than saying what comes to our minds, ask God to give you the self-control to stop and think about what you're about to say before you say it. Doing this requires awareness of God's presence, character, and maturity on our part. However, it's also what pleases and honors God and those around us. Ask God today to give you the power to "bridle," "guard," and "tame" your tongue.  

As we continue to pray this prayer of blessing over family, friends, and our future, let's pray that God will give us power over our tongues.  

• My Prayer 

May the LORD bless you and protect you. May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. May the LORD show you his favor and give you his peace. Numbers 6:24-26 (NLT) 

Lord, I come before you today asking that you forgive me for things I have said that have hurt or dishonored others and have dishonored you. Bring to my attention words I have spoken over someone else, and give me the strength and courage to ask for their forgiveness. Today, I commit my words to you. May my words be life-giving to my spouse, family, friends, and co-workers. Would you please help me to be a life-lifter through the words I say to those around me? In Jesus' name, Amen.