Ever Want to Shout, "DO OVER!"

As a kid, when we swang hard but missed or ran to kick a ball but instead had it escape underneath our high-kicked leg...we'd shout "DO OVER!"

Oh how I wish life were that simple. Especially lately!

Proverbs 12:18, "Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing." (NIV)

I'm not sure what happened between the ages of 39 and (now nearly) 42 but the lock that once securely staid fastened across my lips seems to have been unlatched. I find myself saying things and responding in ways that are at times unattractive.

Why didn't you...Why don't you...Why haven't you...

At times like these I want to shout out "Do OVER!"

Perhaps it's the consequence of getting older, being female, and being over 40...or perhaps...it's because of the busyness of my schedule and the demands of responsibility...or perhaps it's because I'm human and I've let down my guard and allowed the enemy to creep in...

Either way, I silently pray: "Lord, God, guard my speech. Let my words be kind, compassionate, and full of life. Guard my thoughts for out of the overflow of my heart my mouth speaks. Season my words with grace and mercy...especially to my family and those closest to me. In Jesus name, amen!

How about you? Ever struggle with your words? Say things you didn't mean to? Ever want to shout, "DO OVER!"

If so, you may find the following hints helpful as you take advantage of your "DO OVERS!" I know, I (for one) want to make sure I don't make the same mistakes.

1. Guard your thoughts and what you're thinking about. We may not like it. But the truth is, we speak what we meditate on. Matthew 12:34-35, "For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks." (NIV) Today ask yourself, "What am I thinking on? What do I dwell on? What consumes my emotions?"
2. Don't just guard your thoughts, control them. Philippians 4:8-9, "...whatever is true, whatever is noble , whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable — if anything is excellent or praiseworthy — think about such things." (NIV)
3. Practice Praise. Proverbs 18:21, "The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit." (NIV) I want the evidence of my love for God and others to honor, uplift, and bring life. So much of what we say and do results out of our habits. Ask yourself: Is what I'm about to say uplifting? Does it promote life? Is it seasoned with God's mercy and grace?

I want to invite you to join with me today LIVE at 12 PM EST or listen later to the archived broadcast. Today's Blog-Talk Radio Broadcast is devoted to exploring the ways our words influence, inspire, and impact others at: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/cwa-radio/2011/09/07/his-love-extended Hope you can join with us.

I want to encourage you, today--if you've hurt someone with your speech--ask forgiveness--and then make the most of the "DO OVER" they grant you.

PRAYER: Father, fill us with your grace, mercy, and unconditional love. Help us to meditate on what is pure, lovely, and of a "GOOD" report. And season our words with yours. Cause us to reflect your love in all we say. May our speech always inspire life. In JESUS name, amen.