What Bambi and Jesus Have in Common

Day 11

I remember watching the movie Bambi as a kid and learning this lesson: if you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all. In one of my recent daily devotionals, Billy Graham touches on the same topic, explaining that the Bible teaches that if a man can control his tongue he can control his personality. For me, this realization was a true "ah-ha moment" as I yearn for people to see God in me, yet struggle with taming my tongue. James 1:26 says, "Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless." I personally prefer to think of myself as faithful, and not religious, but the verse still applies and teaches on the heart of the matter. If I am to allow people to see the Lord working in my life, I must learn to tame my tongue--evicting complaining, fear, anxiety, nagging, and unjust criticism from my speech, and ultimately, my spirit. 

40 Day Challenge--Day 11:

If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all! Practice constraint in your thoughts and speech. If what you're about to say does not glorify God, then refrain from expressing it. Before beginning today's challenge, ask God to guide you in taming your tongue. If you slip up, start over again! As this song proclaims, "Let them see You in me."