Trash Talkin'

My mouth has always been an issue (see Mouth Harping). I have never gained control over the words that fly out of my mouth. I will use language that is inappropriate for a Christian, I will gossip or slander someone. I am apt to speak about things which are best left unsaid. There are so many scripture references that talk about this (see the ENTIRE book of James, for instance) and yet I still sin with the hole just below my nose. Do I not possess the tubing that runs from my mind to my mouth to stop myself before I blow it? I have often prayed about this issue, asking God to take away my sin and vowing afresh to cease in this sin. I heard something recently that makes an enormous difference, though. RENOUNCEMENT vs. Regretfulness. When one renounces a behavior they vow to NEVER do it again. Somewhere in the back of my mind I can hear myself say, "But when I do, He'll forgive me.". That's a little self-defeating, I know? I am hoping that it just gets a little better each day. This year I don't want to be constantly apologizing to people for hurt feelings or apologizing to God for the curses I spew forth. It truly is a restless evil.

If I am to move forward with God and grasp that which He has for me in this new year, I must renounce double speak forever.

I leave it in the dust, Lord. I offer this sacrifice to you.