We have made it to the O in worth which stands for obey. Last time we used our focal passage of Titus Two to realize one way we show worth is through loving our husbands and children.
There's more to this O of obey. The next directive we should obey is to be self-controlled. This always makes me think of controlling anger or our emotions.
Let's face it, we need to exercise control over our tongues.
James 3:9-10 says: "With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be."
We are told there shouldn't be praise coming from the same mouth that spouts curses at another brother or sister.
How often have I spewed words at another person only to wish I could take them back? Just like the toothpaste illustration proves, once those words are out, they can't be taken back. This is where self-control comes in. We must work to bridle our tongues just like a horse is controlled through a bridle and a bit. Can we accomplish this on our own? No.
When we give control of our lives over to God, we must be very specific about giving Him control of our tongues. But, what does this look like in practice?
First, we think on the things of God and we look on others through God's love. This renewed perspective can help us to see people as God sees them. Who has more of a right to look on sinful people with scorn than God? And yet, He doesn't. We must pray for Him to help us see people as He sees them and to control our tongues. We should speak encouraging words, not ones that tear down.
Practicing self-control is a characteristic that God sees as worthwhile.
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