“Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth;
keep watch over the door of my lips!”
Psalm 141:3

I’ve been told that I have a tendency towards a foul mouth. It tends to creep up on me depending on my circumstances and the company I keep. When things are difficult, the words come out unnoticed. Same is true when I’m hanging around the guys. I don’t notice it so much with my own mouth, but I do notice it when other Christians cuss. It doesn’t fit. Certainly, Melissa doesn’t think my swearing is flattering.

In a sense, it is a good reminder of the man I used to be. It is true that cussing can be taken to the level of artistic expression, but that’s what they say about striptease dancing. This behavior is simply relishing in that which is ultimately harmful to ourselves and others. My father was a prolific curser, and so was his little boy. He thought it was cute. Then again, he saw nothing wrong with pornography, smoking, drinking, fighting, and temper outbursts. Neither did his son.

Without a doubt, I’m not the man I used to be. I’m reminded of that occasionally in things like my speech. I really don’t need to be reminded in this way.

1 Peter 4:3-5 For the time that is past suffices for doing what the Gentiles want to do, living in sensuality, passions, drunkenness, orgies, drinking parties, and lawless idolatry. With respect to this they are surprised when you do not join them in the same flood of debauchery, and they malign you; but they will give account to him who is ready to judge the living and the dead.

My circle of friends has changed. I no longer join my old friends, but I do have tendencies toward some of that old behavior, particularly coarse language and gluttony. So, while I like to think that I am a leader, there are times that I need correction from my friends.

Galatians 6:1 Brothers, if anyone is caught in any transgression, you who are spiritual should restore him in a spirit of gentleness. Keep watch on yourself, lest you too be tempted.

Ok, so this needs to be a verse to write on my heart. Good guys can easily sin. I’m both the transgressor as well as the one who easily succumbs to temptation. Thus, the need for prayer.

Father set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the doors of my lips. Amen.

Copyright © 2019 Scott Powers