MINIMIZING WORDS
Proverbs 10:18 (10:20 LXX)
You will not escape sin by a multitude of words,
But you of discreet lips will be forbearing.
Personal Challenge
One of the parts of our bodies that gets us in more trouble than all of the other parts is our tongue. Any time that we say something to someone, those words become permanent and cannot be taken back. It is not a problem if the words spoken are loving, encouraging, and uplifting. Sometimes, however, even these words can be perceived by the recipient as mean-spirited depending on their own heart. Throughout the scriptures, both old and new, as well as many of the teachings of the Church fathers, we are instructed that minimizing the words that come out of our mouths can help to minimize arguments and upsets. This does not mean that we stop communicating altogether. It means that we develop discreet lips, lips that control what comes out of our mouths, lips that filter our thoughts so that we speak that which becomes more forbearing. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, the sinner.
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