New Year’s Resolutions

Part 2: Our Words

It’s a bit late coming, but here is the second of four “New Year’s resolutions,” taken from the four uses in Scripture (in the NIV) of the word “resolved.”

Last time we looked at a resolution made by Jehoshaphat: He determined to pray, to seek God first in his time of crisis.

The second use of the word “resolved” is found in the book of Psalms. Although chronologically this resolution by King David comes before Jehoshaphat’s, it appears later in the Bible, so I am presenting it in that order.

David’s resolution was simple: “I have resolved that my mouth will not sin” (Ps. 17:3).

Psalm 17 was written during a very difficult time in David’s life. He was facing significant danger, being under attack by a violent enemy (almost certainly Saul) who was determined to do him harm. It is clear from the passage that David was under great pressure.

In the midst of this perilous situation, David made a resolution not to sin with his mouth.

I find that interesting in light of his situation. It’s sad to say, but often when we are in the midst of difficult times, we are tempted to say sinful things that dishonor the Lord.

How often do words of doubt spring from our lips when the pressure is on? Or expressions of anger or fear? I’ve lost count of the times I’ve heard Christians confess they were angry with God. I wonder if we even consider such expressions sinful, as David did.

This future king was facing extreme danger, and I have no doubt that he wondered why. He had always been faithful and loyal to the one trying to take his life, so it would seem understandable for him to question God. Yet he resolved not to express one word that would offend his Lord and so sin against Him.

There are many ways we can sin with our mouths.

In the New Testament, James chastises his readers on this very subject. In the first chapter he makes this cutting statement: “If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight reign on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless” (v. 26).

James is saying that a person can be doing things that seem honoring to God, yet if his tongue is not under control, his actions are wasted.

People can be involved in all kinds of outward religious activities and formalities, yet by failing to keep a tight rein on their tongue, they deceive themselves in the process, and their “religion is worthless.” James is describing a tongue that is out of control.

Jesus put it like this: “Out of the overflow of his heart his mouth speaks” (Luke 6:45).

Throughout Scripture there are admonitions concerning both godly and ungodly speech.

We are warned against corrupt language such as slander, gossip, lying, false flattery, cursing and blasphemy, to name a few. On the positive side, the Word of God consistently appeals to believers to use their tongues to spread love, truth, joy, life, encouragement, blessing, and rebuke and correction when needed. Most importantly, we are to give praise and honor to the Lord.