Proverbs 13:3 – “He who guards his mouth keeps his life; he who speaks too much shall bring ruin upon himself.”

As I read, prayed, and pondered the Word of God today, two words became my focus.   Filter and Faith.   The words of our test are powerfully important. 

In Proverbs 18:13, we are informed that if we answer before we have the facts, it is foolishness and reviles.

Proverbs 17:27 – “He who spares his words has knowledge; and he who is patient is a wise man.”   That means we need to “put a filter on our mouths” and enjoy God’s blessings.  We are to guard against doing harm with our words.  Why do some want to “tell it like it is?”   They have no filter but speak out of selfishness.

Proverbs 18:21 – “Death and life are in the power of the tongue; and those who love it shall eat the fruits thereof.”

No filter results in needless harm and ultimately death.   The absence of a filter and patience were exhibited in Luke 1 with Zechariah and Elizabeth when Gabriel visited.   Zechariah asked, “How shall I understand this?”   He was asking for a sign.  Gabriel gave him a sign.  His unfiltered mouth got him in trouble.  

Mary demonstrated both ‘filter and faith’ when she asked for understanding since she was a virgin and would remain so until marriage.  She asked to understand and was blessed.  Zechariah asked for a sign, expressing doubt.   His words got him in trouble, but Mary’s words got her blessed.

Be aware of your words.  Unfiltered words can bring God’s disfavor.   Think before you speak. 

Lord, make our words pleasing to You.