“If thou hast done foolishly in lifting up thyself, or if thou hast thought evil, lay thine hand upon thy mouth” (Prov. 30:32).
What does it mean to “think evil”? You are thinking evil when you dwell on any kind of thoughts that are contrary to God’s Word.
What are you supposed to do if you are guilty of thinking evil? “Lay thine hand upon thy mouth.” God is telling you, “If you’ve thought evil, that’s one thing. But don’t verbalize it, or you might get the evil you’ve been thinking! If you’ve done foolishly or thought evil, lay your hand on your mouth.”
Proverbs 10:19 says, “In the multitude of words there wanteth not sin: but he that refraineth his lips is wise.” Sometimes the wisest thing to do is to keep our mouths closed. James 1:19 says, “Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath.”
So refuse to dwell on evil thoughts of doubt, unbelief, complaint or worry. Don’t let them come out of your mouth. Be slow to speak. Refrain your lips from doubtful and evil speaking. Put your hand on your mouth if you have to! Do whatever you have to do to make sure your words line up with the Word of God!
I guard my words and keep them in line with God’s Word. The words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart are acceptable in the sight of God, my strength and my redeemer! (Ps. 19:14)
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
For over 40 years, Pastors Mark and Janet Brazee have traveled throughout the world sharing the Word of God and the Spirit of God. Together they've shared the powerful truths of faith and healing in more than 50 nations.
Today Mark and Janet pastor World Outreach Church in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where they base their ongoing outreach to the world. The Brazees still travel as the Lord leads, and they are raising up a congregation who share their passion to reach Tulsa and the world.