Guarding one’s mouth or words is the first step to keeping Satan and his evil assignments against us null and void. Now, the word “guard” means to keep safe from harm or attack; to keep under close watch; to keep in check. As Christians, it is our individual responsibility to guard our mouth. Because Satan knows that our words have authority and power in this earth realm and he attempts to persuade us to speak the challenge, the trial and or the test instead of the solution. When we choose to complain and gossip about the problem, we validate the negative situation and give it control over our life. It is our fear of the situation that neutralizes our faith in God’s Word which is the solution to every obstacle we come across.
We should know without a shadow of doubt that a Christian’s authority and power over Satan comes from the Greater One in us. Jesus the Christ is our redeemer who has set us free from the curse of the law. And, in Him we have the victory—no exceptions—over Satan, his demons and evil assignments. Jesus tells us in Matthew 15:11, “It’s not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth.”
“Defiles” means ravish, violate, molest, hurt or rape. These are very strong and life threating actions that only bring death and destruction to the victim. And, we know from Proverbs 18:21 that death and life are in the power or authority of our tongue (words). This is great news to each of us because we are in control of the words we speak on a daily basis. The more we speak the Word of God over our situations the more abundant life we bring into manifestation individually and collectively as the Body of Christ (Proverbs 12:13; 13:3).
On the other hand, if we continue to speak negatively, we will bring destruction on ourselves (James 3:1-12). This is why James says in Chapter 1 verses 19-20, “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry, because human anger does not produce the righteousness that God desires.” Holding our tongue to avoid and or prevent the escalation of an argument is wisdom (Proverbs 10:19; 14:17). We are the peace makers and where ever we go we should bring the love and peace of God with us.
Proverbs 17:27-28 says, “The one who has knowledge uses words with restraint, and whoever has understanding is even-tempered. Even fools are thought wise if they keep silent, and discerning if they hold their tongues.” Therefore, guard your words, “Do not be quick with your mouth, do not be hasty in your heart to utter anything before God. God is in heaven and you are on earth, so let your words be few (Ecc. 5:2).”