Proverbs 13:3 (NLT)
“Those who control their tongue will have a long life; a quick retort can ruin everything.”

Poor Tongue Management Disorder

Are you suffering from PTMD? Being careful about your words is the primary way to stay out of trouble. Conversely, speaking rashly—hastily and thoughtlessly—invites disaster upon the speaker and everyone within earshot.
When we look back over our lives, many of our greatest regrets can be traced to Poor Tongue Management Disorder. Reckless words, promises we couldn’t keep, leaking private information, offending others, or misrepresenting the truth are all symptoms. When you speak rashly, people learn not to depend on you, and they eventually stop coming around. Hastily spoken words don’t just hurt feelings; they can cause physical, financial, and relational suffering.
James, the brother of Jesus, gives us the clinical assessment of this disorder:
“We all make many mistakes, but those who control their tongues can also control themselves in every other way.” (James 3:2) Tongue control is the master key. If you can manage your mouth, you can manage your money, your health, and your habits.

The Practice

Strategic Silence

1. The Value Test
Is your “point” really that important? Every word Christ spoke added value to the listener. We must hold our speech to the same standard. Are you speaking life into your home, your family, and your community, or are you just “venting” at the expense of your future?
2. Edify or Destroy?
There is no “neutral” ground with the tongue. It is either a tool for building or a torch for burning. James warns that the tongue is a flame of fire that can turn the entire course of your life into a blazing furnace of destruction. Before you speak, ask: Is this a hammer to build them up or a match to burn it down?
3. The ROI (Return on Investment) of a Retort
Is what you’re about to say worth the outcome? A “quick retort” might be witty, and it might make you feel superior for three seconds, but is it worth the three years of damage it might cause? Consider the long-term impact of your “short-term” wit.
4. Read the Room
Wisdom is knowing what to say; discernment is knowing when to say it. Is it the right time to be “right”? Sometimes being “right” at the wrong time is just another way of being wrong.

Today’s Declaration

“I am taking back control of my rudder. I reject Poor Tongue Management Disorder and choose to speak words that add value and build life. I will value peace over the ‘last word’ and I will let the Holy Spirit filter my thoughts before they reach my lips.”

The person who masters their mouth can master their destiny. Today is a great day to make a Fresh Start!
God bless,
+Pastor Kris