Confessions of a recovering Loud Mouth

If you've known me for more than 5.5 seconds, you probably know that "reserved" is not a term that would describe me. At all. Loud, boisterous, foot in mouth? Yes, you might use any of those descriptors. While I want so badly to be a Precious Person, meekness just doesn't come naturally to me. In fact, at a precious friend's wedding last month, another member of my rowdy tribe leaned over to me and said, "I'm pretty sure none of us are even remotely sweet enough to be her friend." True story. Honestly, I don't know how we haven't sent her running for the hills (I love you, Alyssa and I'm so glad you're the honorary Sweet Friend in my life. Don't run now).

Knowing this, it may come as no surprise to you that my study in the book of James has left me wanting to crawl under a rock. If you've read James for more than 5.5 seconds, you know he has some things to say about us loud mouths. He doesn't exactly mince words when he says, "If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue...this person's religion is worthless (1:26)." Okay, cool. If that's the case, I might as well be the professor of "Being a Heathen 101." Seriously. I cannot even tell you how many nights (all of them) that I lay my head down and think of at least one (usually more) thing I've said that I regret. 

But here's the beauty in this. First of all, James also reminds us that, "Mercy triumphs over judgement (2:13)." Even for me and my big mouth, there is mercy. Hallelujah to that! 

Second, God gave me my personality. In my outgoingness, He has a plan to use me (see Psalm 139:13-14). With the Holy Spirit leading me to follow in obedience, my words can be used for good. I can learn to speak Truth and life into people. Through Him, I can be an encourager, building up those around me, instead of tearing them down. I can invite others to come alongside me - to be a part of my community. My lips can proclaim the Gospel as we are commended to do in 2 Timothy 4:2; "Preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching." We are commissioned to use our words for God's glory. What an opportunity to be more like Him! 

Have grace with me on this journey, friends, for I am a looooooong way off. I just made fun of my husband for wearing grey shorts with a grey shirt, so clearly I have my work cut out for me (but come on, grey on grey?). It's not going to be easy, but oh is it exciting when the Lord sparks a change in your heart. I can't wait to see where he leads me and my prayer is that you are allowing Him to lead you somewhere too. He's the One worth following, after all.

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