KEEPING YOURSELF OUT OF TROUBLE

9/19/2025

“Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble” (Proverbs 21:23).

Words, once spoken, cannot be taken back. That’s why Scripture warns us to guard our tongues. The old saying, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me,” is not biblical. Words can wound deeply—ourselves and those around us. That is why Proverbs 21:23 emphasizes: “Whoever keeps his mouth and his tongue keeps himself out of trouble.”

In this series, we’ve been examining six things that happen when we talk too much. We’ve already covered four. Today, let’s look at the final two.

Excessive talking fuels gossip.

Proverbs 20:19 says,“Whoever spreads gossip betrays confidences; so don’t get involved with someone who talks too much.”The more we speak without restraint, the greater the temptation to share what we should keep private. Loose words often betray trust, repeat rumors, and expose matters that should remain covered. But Scripture tells us,“Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends” (Proverbs 17:9). Love covers; gossip uncovers. Instead of broadcasting a brother or sister’s weakness, pray for them, support them, and keep their matter before God.“Without wood, a fire goes out; without a gossip, a quarrel dies down”(Proverbs 26:20).

Excessive talking produces idle words.

When the tongue is untamed, idle speech becomes inevitable. Jesus warned,“But I say unto you, that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the Day of Judgment” (Matthew 12:36). The Greek word for “idle” (argos) means unprofitable, useless, careless, barren. In other words, every barren, lifeless, careless word we speak will one day be brought before the Lord.

Idle words are not justified by calling them jokes. Scripture is clear: “Nor should there be obscenity, foolish talk or coarse joking, which are out of place, but rather thanksgiving” (Ephesians 5:4). Proverbs 26:18–19 warns that joking at another’s expense is like “a maniac shooting flaming arrows of death.”

Beloved, God calls us to be intentional with our words. Our speech should carry weight, power, and life. Let the Holy Spirit guide your conversations, whether in private fellowship or public platforms. “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up… that it may benefit those who listen” (Ephesians 4:29).

Speak less. Speak wisely. Speak with power.

Faith-Filled Confession:

I refrain my tongue from every perverse and idle word. My speech is seasoned with grace, filled with life, and empowered by the Spirit. I speak words that enforce the realities of Heaven in my life and around me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Prayer Point

1. Safety and wellbeing of children under 16

2. Increase grace for church growth - Zac 8:23

3. Manifestation of God’s power and presence