Growing up I remember my buddies and I having this phrase we would say in response to an ugly, mean or even arrogant statement. When one of us would say something one of us deemed wrong, someone would reply, “Watch Yo Mouth, Boy!” This phrase was used to help the offender think about his statement and hopefully not say the same thing again.

I know, you’re thinking that’s a silly thing for guys to say. Well, you’re probably right, but we said it anyway. Here’s my point in all of this. Although the phrase, “Watch Yo Mouth, Boy!” is goofy and something most adults would never say to one another, it is an important expression we could benefit from if we considered it in our daily lives.

The wise man said, “Do you see a man who is hasty in his words? There is more hope for a fool than for him” (Prov. 29:20). How many times a day do you say something in haste only to regret what you said moments, days or even weeks later? Perhaps it’s something you said to your spouse, your kids, your parents, your employer, your teachers, your friends or your coworkers. I know from personal experience that the words I spoke in haste, more often than not, were things I wished I could take back immediately.

Admit it. This is one area of our lives that could use some improvement, isn’t it? Possibly you’ve already said something in haste today you wish you could have taken back.

Notice what Solomon said in the verse mentioned above. He said there is more hope for a fool than for a man who is hasty in his words. A fool has more hope than a person who is quick to speak. As crazy as this may sound, it’s true. When we speak hastily we say things that are hurtful, mean, ugly and harmful. James said, “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger” (Jam. 1:19).

As you deal with people who frustrate, irritate and even hurt you with their words and actions, be sure you “Watch yo mouth!” Let’s all be mindful not to be too hasty with our words. Otherwise, a fool will have more hope than we will.

Now that’s Something to Think About!

QUESTION: What are some things you do to help you control your tongue? Share in the comments section below.