“All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.”

Lord Jesus, There are parts of my life that I have very much in control. I’ve learned to avert my eyes away from many things that I shouldn’t be looking at. I’ve learned to stay away from places that lure me into temptation. There are many things in my life that I have brought under my control but my tongue remains untamable. I sing on Sunday. I pray in the morning. I praise you and teach others to know you. But then I go home and complain about people. Then I go off to grumble and complain about people who hurt me. I say all kinds of evil, hurtful, and shameful things about people behind their back. And sometimes I even say it to their face! Sometimes, dear Jesus-and I say this to my great shame-all kinds of vile things come out of my mouth. People must look at me sometimes and question how I can be even be a Christian. O Lord, Jesus, all I can say is forgive me for my vile mouth and give me your strength to control my tongue. Don’t let it be the destruction of me. Forgive and help me, dear Jesus. Amen.