Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers,

because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.

We all stumble in many ways.

Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.

James 3:1-2

I have a friend who keeps Psalm 141:3 ever-present in her mind,

Set a guard over my mouth, LORD;
   keep watch over the door of my lips.

Many times I have observed her during a conversation as she consciously chose NOT to say something that I could tell was on her mind.

She either remains quiet during uncomfortable conversations or changes the topic of those around her to something more positive.

I've watched and learned from her through the years, and now I have hidden this verse in my heart too.

I have been amazed at how it has changed me.

I've not mastered the art of "only saying what is necessary," but I am getting better.

Now, when placed in an uncomfortable situation where I could easily add bits of information that would not be positive OR when I feel frustrated and want to share more than what is necessary, I hear the words,

Set a guard over my mouth, LORD;
   keep watch over the door of my lips.

Sometimes I mess up and say things I shouldn't say.  Now, though, I feel immediate guilt and am very aware of my mistake.  I have even reached the place where I will often call someone to apologize if I feel I have said more than I should have about a situation.  I want to please God in all I say and do.

God longs to be our tongue tamer.

He understands our struggle.

We'll read more about the power of the tongue tomorrow.

For today, I hope you can work on hiding this short verse above (Psalm 141:3) in your heart.  Tape it on your desk at work, on your bathroom mirror, inside the lining of your wallet....anywhere you need to place it so that you are constantly reminded that God is with you........even as you speak to friends and family, and He wants to be the watchman over the door of your lips.

On a personal note, Olivia is very sick.  We have been doing breathing treatments since Sunday night.  My dear friend Topsy took her to the doctor for me yesterday, and they started antibiotics.  Last night, though, she seemed to be getting worse.  Her fever rose to 102.  The wheezing and barking cough scared her to the point of tears.  Please say a prayer for her today.  I am home with her this morning, and Tim will be with her this afternoon.  I may be taking her back to the doctor after I get home from school if she is not improving.  This is one of those times when a full-time job just doesn't feel right for a mom - no matter how old your child is getting. Thank you for saying a prayer for her recovery.

I love you all so much,