Without question one of the most powerful statements about the tongue is found in Chapter 18 of the Book of Proverbs.
Verse 21 says: "Death and life are in the power of the tongue:..." When Jesus spoke about the tongue he said that we will give account of every "idle word" that we speak in the day of judgement. (Matt. 12:36,37) There is so much hatred, lies, and slander today I wonder if the 'balance' of words spoken hastens the return of the Lord when it gets too negative. We need to be mindful to speak words of "life".
I must admit when I read each chapter I concentrate on the good parts, the positive parts. I then see if I am aligned with them and if I have put them in to practice. Then I look at the consequences. It's a good thing to 'examine' yourself in the light of the scripture. Don't compare yourself to others; that's not good. You can't see the heart nor know the gifts that God's placed within. When we yield to God verse 16 tells us that our "gift" will manifest and God will promote its place in the body of Christ for His purpose. You won't need to promote yourself. Your first praise song won't be sung in front of a congregation of 700; it will be sung to God in your den, family room, or prayer closet with your hands extended and tears running down your face. Then when you're 'promoted' to the platform in front of 700 people you'll be singing to God with your hands extended and tears running down your face. This is true of all the gifts.
I need to mention verse 10 before we go about our day. "The name of the Lord..." This could take a few pages but I'll just plant a few seeds. When Moses said to God, "who shall I say sent me?" The Lord replied "tell them I AM sent you". "I am what I am, and I will be who I will be." Jehovah: The Lord God IS ! In verse 10 He is a "strong tower". What do you need Him to be? The bible tells us to Call upon the name of the Lord... Do you need safety? Healing? Provision? Salvation? Shepherd?
See you tomorrow, Pastor Herb
It's in His Name.
Call upon Him in your den, family room, or prayer closet with your hands extended and tears running down your face...