Loose Screw!

After reassembling something, if I realize I have some “extra” parts, I get a little concerned. Missing parts can create a hazard as can loose or missing bolts and screws. To be driving a car around with a loose bolt or nut could be dangerous enough to cause an accident and even loss of life. To climb a stairway that has some loose screws could cause someone to fall and severely injure themselves. Then there are those who are described as running around with a “screw loose” in their head because they don’t seem to be thinking very clearly. That also can be an extremely dangerous and unpredictable situation.

Someone has noted, “The first screw to get loose in your head is the one that holds your tongue in place.” [source: calendar quote] A loose TONGUE has been the cause of accidental outbursts, severe slips, death to reputation, and falling out of relationships. The TONGUE is a part of the body that requires a little extra care to maintain control.

Solomon encouraged…
“WHOEVER KEEPS HIS MOUTH AND HIS TONGUE KEEPS HIMSELF OUT OF TROUBLE.” ( Proverbs 21:23 ESV)

Can we say “Amen” to that? Oh, how quickly a loose TONGUE can create trouble. Such trouble is not so easily gotten out of.

Peter reminded (quoting from Psalm 34:12-13)…
“For ‘Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him KEEP HIS TONGUE FROM EVIL and HIS LIPS FROM SPEAKING DECEIT;’” ( 1 Peter 3:10 ESV)

The TONGUE can impact in so many ways. Keeping it under control spares us the trouble of causing damage that is often times irreparable. It is something we need to keep in mind in all of our relationships. We should also be mindful of the reflection the lack of control has on the religion we claim to possess.

James warned…
“If anyone thinks he is religious and does NOT BRIDLE HIS TONGUE but DECEIVES HIS HEART, THIS PERSON’S RELIGION IS WORTHLESS.” ( James 1:26 ESV)

Considering the use of our TONGUE is a serious thing. May we not be guilty of possessing a loose TONGUE, but rather one that speaks what is good, builds others up, meets the need of the occasion, and is gracious toward those who hear. ( Ephesians 4:29) This is the way to ward off the need for damage control by using the TONGUE in ways that promote life and peace.

Have a great day SPEAKING IN BENEFICIAL WAYS!
Carl

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