A fool is destroyed by his mouth, his lips are a snare for his life (Proverbs 18:7)
We would all cringe at the thought of a mouth full of pebbles. But a stone in the mouth can actually be something to be desired. At least, that seems true of the cranes that live in the Taurus mountains of southern Turkey.
The cranes tend to chatter, especially during their flight. But the sound will actually attract the attention of the eagle, which swoops down and grabs the birds to eat. Experienced cranes avoid the threat by picking up stones large enough to fill their mouths. This prevents them from squabbling—and from becoming lunch for the eagles.
Humans also have problems with the mouth. The writer of the book of Proverbs says, “Whoever guards his mouth guards his life, whoever has a wide lips will be crushed by destruction” (13:3). “The lips of a fool utter debate, and his mouth cries out for blows” (18:6). How many troubles could be prevented if we would learn to control our tongues! How much heartache we cause others could be prevented if we would watch our word!
Do you have problems with your tongue? Try these ways: Ask God for help. Think before you open your mouth. Learn to speak less. Following those directions can be as effective as a stone in the mouth —Richard De Haan
THINK WHAT YOU'RE GOING TO SAY
OR YOU WILL SAY WHATEVER CAME TO YOUR MIND
OR YOU WILL SAY WHATEVER CAME TO YOUR MIND
*) Take from Renugan Harian