Does your tongue ever get you in trouble? You know. Those moments when you speak rashly, without thinking and then immediately regret what you said but it’s too late to take it back. Ugh! Or, the times when you criticize someone rather than complimenting them?   Ouch! I sure know those moments!  We need a “Tongue Makeover!”

This morning I read a tip for the out of control tongue, “Ascribe to the Lord the glory due His name; bring an offering and come into His courts. Worship the Lord in the splendor of His holiness, tremble before him, all the earth.” (Psalm 96:8-9) I love the way, Eugene Peterson, paraphrases this verse, “Bravo, God, Bravo! Everyone join in the great show: Encore! In awe before the beauty, in awe before the might. Bring gifts and celebrate, Bow before the beauty of God, Then to your knees – everyone worship!” So what’s the tip?   Use your tongue to give God honor.

Practically speaking, here’s what a “Tongue Makeover” looks like:

• Instead of complaining, praise God for whatever He is doing in your life.
• Instead of criticizing someone, pray, “Bravo, God, for how you created  ___________(put in name) for your glory!”
• Instead of speaking rashly, pause, and praise God that He will give you wisdom for what to speak.
• Instead of using a harsh tone, thank the Holy Spirit that He empowers you to be gentle.
• Instead of cursing, praise the name of Jesus Christ.

Friend, as you enter this new week, maybe you are headed for work. Or, maybe you are at home with toddlers, or carpooling kids to school. It’s so easy when frustrated to use our tongue for destruction rather than honor. Will you join me in praying, “Lord Jesus, I worship and honor you this morning. I realize that at different times today, I will become frustrated. In those moments, would you remind me to offer my tongue to you as an instrument of worship? Show me moment by moment through out this week what it looks like to honor You with my tongue!”

If you’ve ever struggled with your tongue, I’d love to hear from you!   What have you found most helpful in your tongue makeover?  Leave a comment. I’ll be giving away 2 free copies of The 30 Day Praise Challenge to 2 people who leave comments!~   So don’t be shy. You won’t be judged. We can just encourage each other. Leave a comment.