Whenever the kids are being unruly or unkind, and I get tempted to yell a truth in anger just to get them to their senses, I try my best to pause and remember a Psalm I came across with one day.
It is Psalm 141:3 which simply says, “Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.” As a mom of three, one of the disciplines I am trying my best to learn is to pause before saying something especially when I am tired, stressed out, hungry, or just plain cranky. And If I can be honest, it is very challenging at times, and frustrating because I cannot seem to master it especially when it is supposed to be past the kids’ bedtime and I have worn myself out from doing my chores.
Memorizing this bible passage, and reciting it each time I am at the brink of saying something that could be potentially hurtful, helps a lot in my quest to be a more tactful and patient mother. While I will never condone disrespect and misbehavior, I am trying to learn better ways to call my children’s attention than using pointed words or gazing at them with piercing eyes.
I try to remind myself too of the Apostle James’ letter, where he reminded followers of Jesus to control their tongue, and not give in to the temptation of saying whatever it is in their minds when they are angry or frustrated.
“Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.” James 1:26
And while curbing my speech is doable, I still fail more than I would want to admit. It is just fortunate that we are not expected to be a patient, self-controlled, loving and kind mom on our own power. Apart Jesus offers to help us smoothen the rough edges of our character, to strengthen us when we are too weak. All we have to do is to ask Him.
“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians 12:9
Thank you for reading through our devotional today. I invite you to
ponder on James 3:7-10 to dig deeper on today’s topic.
Reflection Question: How do you tame your tongue, especially when there are moments that trigger you to speak the truth in anger?
Conversation with the Lord: Heavenly Father, thank you that we can tap into your power as we try hard to become kinder, more patient and self-controlled. Thank you that in you, we can learn to be more tactful. Please give us the grace to continue holding on to your grace, and strengthen us to overcome our human tendencies towards tactlessness. Amen.