Derek finishes this study by explaining why it is so important for us to say the right things. Jesus is in heaven representing us before the throne, as the high priest of our confession. What we say on earth is heard in heaven—and it needs to affirm what He has done for us. Identify yourself with what the Word of God says!

Throughout Scripture we are told to have a new song in our mouth, to praise the Lord, to bless and not curse. As we yield our tongue to the Holy Spirit, our mouth should flow with praise, thanks, and blessing. Our words should reflect the glory of the One living in us and be a witness to Him.

Today Derek lays out practical steps in dealing with your tongue. Be honest with God and call your problem by its rightful name: it is sin. Confess it and receive forgiveness and cleansing. From then on refuse sin, say “No” to it, and yield your tongue to God.

Where does the stuff we say really come from? Jesus identified the problem as coming from inside each one of us. There may be bitterness, resentment, unbelief, impurity, or pride in our heart, but what is inside will eventually come out, even to our own surprise. That is why we are exhorted to guard our hearts.

This week we look again at the tongue and the words we speak. When God tells you to do something, will you speak against it or believe that it can be done? Joshua and the children of Israel were told to take the Promised Land but ten spies came back with a bad report saying they couldn’t take it. Caleb and Joshua alone agreed with God. Each group got what they said, and that is what we need to learn.

We finish this week with three more diseases of the tongue. Do you know that God detests lying? Satan is the father of lies and you should not have any part of him. Flattery is a common problem that ends in ruin. Finally there is hastiness of speech, a condition worse than that of a fool. These are harsh words, but scriptural.

Today Derek looks at three specific diseases that affect our tongues we need to be wary of. Excessive talking is common but leads to transgression. Idle or careless words often come out, but we will be held accountable for what we have said. The third disease is gossip or slander— we are not to be the source of it nor the recipient. Don’t let poison in to your body.

What kind of religion does God approve of? Today we look in James to see just what effects the tongue has in our lives. Are we setting things on fire or are we blessing others with our words? What an amazing member of our body the Lord has given us, and He expects us to control the use of it.

Using some personal experiences, Derek illustrates what Jesus had to say about the origin of our words, establishing a direct connection between the mouth and the heart. From the Song of Solomon, we see prophetic pictures of Jesus and His bride portrayed with grace and beauty on their tongues and lips.

Today Derek begins a study concerning what we speak; the words we let come out of our mouth. Do you guard what you say, or do you just speak rashly, letting anything come out? We will look at what Proverbs has to say about this, and how it is so closely connected with the fear of the Lord. As you listen you will doubtless discover how important this subject is to your life.