"Set a guard over my mouth, O Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips. Let not my heart be drawn to what is evil, to take part in wicked deeds with men who are evildoers; let me not eat of their delicacies." -- Psalm 141:3-4

If we think about the brokenness in our relationships, how much of that brokenness due to things that have been said?  In the heat of a fight, we say things that we wish we'd never said.  Our hurt causes us to want to hurt others.  And once something is said, it cannot be unsaid.  As the people created by God, and in God's image, we were not created to harm one another.  That is willful disobedience when we do so.  That is sin.  But everyone argues, fights, and blows off steam... it's human, right?  Well, yes it is human to feel anger and to express it, but when considering our relationships, it's important to lay out rules of engagement.  When fighting and arguing with people you love, name calling, demeaning each other, and hurtful language should be off-limits.  Care for one another even when you don't feel much like caring.  Protect one another even when you feel like hurting each other.  Always remember that the argument will pass, but the damage done may not be repairable if it goes too far.  "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me..."  Remember that?  It's a lie.  Pray that God guard your tongue.

Readings:  2 Kings 4:18-5:27; Acts 15:1-35; Psalm 141:1-10; Proverbs 17:23