Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips.
— Psalms 141:3

The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.
— Proverbs 18:21

How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.
— Psalms 119:9

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What I Say
By Jennifer Kane

Lord, guard the door of all I speak,
And watch my lips today;
Let every word be pure and meek,
And guide me in Your way.

When anger stirs within my soul,
And pride would have its say,
O Spirit, take complete control—
And teach my tongue to pray.

A whisper can bring peace or pain,
A word can bless or break;
So let my heart be washed again,
For Jesus’ mercy’s sake.

O Lord, renew my inward part,
And make my spirit true;
For lips obey the humbled heart
That first is taught by You.

Let what I say bring life and light,
And honor You, O Lord;
May truth and grace be my delight,
And love my every word.

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Scripture: Psalms 141:3, Proverbs 18:21, Psalms 119:9

Our mouths can be like doors—swinging open to offer wisdom, or shutting firmly to protect against rashness. Words, once spoken, cannot be retrieved; they carry the power to heal or to wound, to build or to destroy. That is why Scripture teaches us to be mindful of our speech, understanding that the very act of speaking holds spiritual and psychological weight.

When we pray, “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth,” we’re not just asking for control over our tongues—we’re asking for transformation of the heart. Because what fills the heart overflows through the lips. Intentional speech requires more than restraint; it calls for reflection. Talking should never be just a reaction but a deliberate act of love and understanding.

Before we respond—especially in conflict—it is powerful to pause. Silence, in its grace, gives us the space to choose peace over pride and patience over anger. Every moment of restraint becomes a moment of worship, an opportunity to honor God through self-control.

Grace-filled communication is a reflection of Christ Himself. When we speak with kindness, listen with humility, and respond with gentleness, we become instruments of His love. In doing so, we strengthen the bonds of community and reflect the unity that comes from God’s Spirit.

This journey of mindful speech begins and ends with dependence on God. We cannot guard our mouths by sheer willpower; we must rely on His Spirit to guide our words. Prayer realigns our hearts with His, shaping the way we think, speak, and respond. As we lean into His wisdom, our words begin to echo His truth—pure, uplifting, and full of life.

Before you speak today—pause and pray:
“Lord, guard the door of my mouth. Let my words bring life, not harm.”

Then take a moment to reflect:
Are my words building up or breaking down?
Do I speak with grace, even when I disagree?
How can I use my voice today to reflect God’s love?

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Heavenly Father, Teach me to be slow to speak and quick to listen. Set a watch over my lips and a filter over my thoughts, that what flows from my mouth honors You. Help me use words that bring life and encouragement, reflecting Your heart in every conversation. May my speech be seasoned with grace and my silence be filled with wisdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

November 3 2025