Two-minute read.
If you can’t keep your mouth shut, clap your hand over it! Oh, how many times I wished I had taken this advice and avoided the pitfalls of thoughtless words. When we exalt ourselves, playing the fool, it never ends well. Pride always results in a fall, one way or another.
My mom had a butter churn. Tall, brown wood formed a circle, with metal bands at the top, middle, and bottom holding it together. A smooth, round lid with a hole in the middle covered the top. The dasher, a long wooden pole with four small wood boards attached at the bottom, fit through the hole. Moving the dasher up and down in the churn separated the yellow butterfat from the milkfat. Taking anywhere from 20 to 55 minutes to produce the final product, churning takes work.
When we repeatedly exalt ourselves, it stirs up strife. At dinner with friends, they talked about a person who constantly shares how much money they have. Each statement churns like butter, creating bitter feelings and causing strife. Unaware of the irritation their words cause, this person doesn’t stop playing the fool.
At some point, the listener will react, conflict will ensue, and the relationship will suffer. As Christ’s followers, we must guard our mouths, using our words to build people up rather than tear them down. If we can’t say anything nice, we shouldn’t say anything at all.
Before you speak, ask yourself, “Would you want someone saying that to you?” Think about how the other person will receive your words, and if it doesn’t uplift and encourage, clap your hand over your mouth and keep it shut.
Journal Question:
When has self-exaltation gotten you into trouble?
What comes to mind when you think of words like churning butter?
How can you speak uplifting and encouraging words today?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for giving us hands to help us keep our mouths shut. As we move through our day, let us use only uplifting and encouraging words. Help us honor You in all we do.
IJNIP. Amen
