How to Control Our Tongue

Introduction: James 3:6

1. It is good and right to recognize the need to control the tongue.

1) Every idle word – judged, Matt. 12:36.

2) Religion vain if tongue not bridled, James 1:26.

3) Transgression is often in words, Prov. 10:19.

2. We can see the problem. We have the gift of speech but this is an opportunity for sin.

3. What do we do?

DISCUSSION:

I. Purify the Mind (Change the source of the foul tongue.)

1. Filthy mouths come from filthy minds, Matt. 15:17-20.

2. Heart deceitful and wicked, Jer. 17:9.

3. Heart evil from youth, Gen. 8:21.

4. Transformed by renewing the mind, Rom. 12:2; Psa. 119:11; Psa. 1; Phil. 4:8.

II. Pray to the Creator of the Mind (Repent and confess to God.)

1. Psa. 51:10; Psa. 141:3.

2. Repent and pray to God when we err, Acts 8:22; 1 John 1:7-9. (Take care to deal with the thought.)

III. Create a Proper Habit

1. Replace the sinful with the righteous, Eph. 4:29; Col. 4:6.

2. It must be done every time you err to form a habit. As with a child, a soldier, an animal. You must discipline yourself.

Conclusion:

1. Purify the mind.

2. Pray to the Creator of the mind.

3. Create a proper habit.

Notes for a Wednesday night devotional.