Proverbs 21:23
"Those who guard their
mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity."
SITREP:
The book of Proverbs is packed with practical
wisdom—timeless principles that apply to every part of life. In ancient Israel,
words carried weight, just like they do today. A single sentence could spark a
war, mend a relationship, or ruin a reputation. This verse reminds us that
discipline isn’t just physical or mental—it starts with the tongue.
Solomon, the writer of Proverbs, isn’t talking about staying
silent out of fear. He’s urging deliberate speech—speaking with purpose,
restraint, and wisdom.
Breakdown of the Verse:
“Those who guard their mouths…” – Just like standing watch
at a post, this means being alert about what comes out of your mouth.
“…and their tongues…” – It’s a deeper call—not just watching
your words, but the way you say them: tone, timing, and truthfulness.
“…keep themselves from calamity.” – A loose tongue causes
chaos. Guarded speech prevents unnecessary trouble—especially in high-stakes
environments.
How This Applies to a Soldier’s Faith:
In the field, a soldier’s words can be the difference
between order and confusion, trust and division. The same is true in life and
leadership. A sarcastic jab, an angry outburst, a careless rumor—they can undo
weeks of unity and respect in a single moment.
God calls you to be a person of discipline, and that
includes how you speak—to your team, to your family, and even to yourself. Your
words should be tools of peace and strength, not weapons of harm.
When emotions run high, remember: not every thought needs to
become a sentence.
ENDEX:
You’ve been trained to control your weapon—now train to
control your words.
In combat, misfires cost lives. In life, careless words cost
trust, peace, and sometimes even your witness.
So before you speak, ask:
Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it wise?
Hold your tongue like you’d hold a trigger—with awareness of
its power.
A disciplined mouth protects more than just your
reputation—it guards your mission, your relationships, and your walk with
Christ.
AAR:
When the pressure hits, do your words build the mission or
blow it up? Proverbs 21:23 lays it out with tactical clarity: “Those who
guard their mouths and their tongues keep themselves from calamity.” This
isn’t just about avoiding gossip—it’s about controlling the weapon that’s
always loaded. Your mouth can defend or destroy. One slip, one careless
reaction, and you could wreck trust, unity, or witness. Your challenge: Watch
your words this week like a soldier guards a post. Speak only what’s
mission-necessary, truth-filled, and honor-driven.
Your Mouth Is a Weapon—Learn to Wield It with Discipline
A sharp sword in untrained hands is a liability. Proverbs
21:23 reminds you that your tongue can start fires faster than any enemy. But
when it’s trained—when it’s guarded—you become a soldier others can trust under
pressure. You’re not called to be silent—you’re called to be strategic.
Speak life, truth, correction, and strength—but never without discipline.
Because what comes out of your mouth can either fortify your position or expose
your weakness. So guard your words like your mission depends on it—because it
does.
Make your voice count—share what you’ve lived.
Share your experiences in the comments below. Your words could encourage someone else walking a similar path.
If you're comfortable, include as much or as little personal detail as you’d like. We suggest:
- Name
- Veteran, Retired, Family Member etc.
- Service Branch
- Years of Service (or Deployment Dates and Locations)
Every story matters—and yours might be exactly what someone else needs to hear.
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