The Lord has shown me this warning from the Book of Proverbs many times over the years. Now He is showing it to me again in the hopes that I will finish off this year in a better way than I ever dreamed possible, if I will just be more careful with my words. The NLT translation of this verse says, "Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut." I love the fact that the Bible talks plainly to us, even though it's downright painful sometimes.

The Amplified Translation says, "When there are many words, transgression and offense are unavoidable, but he who controls his lips and keeps thoughtful silence is wise." Did you get that? When we do too much talking, sin and offense are "unavoidable." Sometimes, the best thing we can do is practice "thoughtful silence." God has taught me over the years that I don't have to have the last word in a conversation or an argument. In 51 years of being together, my husband, Joe, and I have had a LOT of arguments. Often, in the midst of a tense conversation, I can sense the Holy Spirit saying, "Shhhh! Enough! Be quiet! Stop now before it's too late!" I suppose that if I had ignored every holy nudge that I have gotten over the years, Joe and I wouldn't be together today.

Years ago, the Lord had me memorize a prayer from Psalm 141:3 (NIV): "Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips." The Amplified version adds, "to keep me from speaking thoughtlessly." What we have to remember is that Satan and his evil cohorts are constantly working overtime in order to get us to sin with our mouths. When we pray Spirit-inspired prayers like these, we can be sure that the Lord will hear us and come to our rescue.

The next time you are tempted to say too much, or to have the last word, remember what the Bible says - "just bite your tongue and be strong!"

Prayer: Lord, I want so much to please You with my conversation. When I am tempted to talk too much, or to say the wrong thing, give me a holy nudge that I can't ignore. Work in my heart so that what overflows into my speech will always be pleasing to You, and a blessing to others. (Luke 6:45) Thank You that as I practice thoughtful silence according to Your will, You will bless my relationships, and use me in new ways for Your glory!