Guarding the Tongue

For a mind and understanding that are most perfect have a clear proof: they have nothing worthless on their tongue, and they endure not speaking foolishly. Instead, they consider it worthy of all speech to know how to speak well and say things full of all praise. For speaking wisdom is most necessary, especially for those who have chosen to live well. Holy people reject speaking foolishly, and it is unaccustomed for them to use jests or shameful talk, as the all-wise Paul says.

They love to speak well, for they remember the holy Scripture which says, 'Your speech should be with grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may give grace to those who hear' (Colossians 4:6). The scripture that is inspired by God accepts gentle speech, but rightly condemns the uncontrolled tongue (Titus 1:8). For it says, 'If someone does not stumble in speech, this one is a perfect man, able to control the whole body' (James 3:2). David sings, 'Set a guard, Lord, over my mouth, and a door of restraint over my lips' (Psalm 51:1). He also says, 'I will guard my ways, so that I do not sin with my tongue' (Psalm 34:13). The best guard is to have an untainted tongue. Do not speak against one another, brothers; for the one who speaks against a brother and judges his brother speaks against the law and judges the law (Romans 2:1). Every difficult passion of our thoughts puts away the beginning and birth of pride. Although it is necessary for some to examine themselves and live according to God, they do not do this, but rather meddle in the affairs of others.

When people see others who are weak, they often use this as an opportunity to slander and condemn them, as if they have forgotten about their own weaknesses. However, in doing so, they are actually condemning themselves, because they suffer from the same flaws as those they are criticizing. This is a point that even the wisest of writers, Paul, has made—that when we judge others, we are essentially condemning ourselves, since we are guilty of the same things.

There are those who are driven by a desire for wealth and gain, and they will endure all sorts of hardships, including long journeys and dangerous navigation, in pursuit of their goals. Others use their power and influence to exploit and take advantage of others, while some accumulate their wealth through unjust and wicked means, such as collecting excessive interest on loans. But to those who are rich and powerful, the warning is clear: your wealth will ultimately rot and decay, your fine clothes will be eaten away by moths, and your gold and silver will be corrupted. Weep and wail, for your troubles are coming.