Reflection

“Therefore guard against profitless grumbling, and from calumny withhold your tongues; For a stealthy utterance will not go unpunished, and a lying mouth destroys the soul.” –Wisdom 1:11

Prayer

God of life,

We should all know by now the truth of your word, that there is life and death in the power of our tongues. Sadly, though, we forget! And in the heat of anger or in self-centered grumbling, we let careless words slip and we hurt those around us. Heal us of the damage we have caused through our words and help us forgive others for the damaging words they have spoken over us. Help us to guard against wasting our breath in lifeless speech, that we might speak as you speak instead, with words full of life and spirit and love. Amen.

Call to Action

Be on guard today with my words. See how long I can go without grumbling. If I need to say I’m sorry for any words I’ve used as weapons, do so today.