by Jeffrey Bush
“Thou hast proved mine heart; thou hast visited me in the night; Thou hast tried me, and shalt find nothing; I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.” — Psalm 17:3
I shamefully cannot echo the first words of David in this verse. I know there is much I need to work on, therefore I cannot say, “thou hast tried me and shalt find nothing.” But I can relate to the last words, and desire to apply them in my life. “I am purposed that my mouth shall not transgress.”
While God was proving and visiting David’s life, David’s request was to purpose not to use his mouth foolishly. What a goal!
Trying times in life seem to force the scum to bubble up until it spills out of the mouth. Arguments, pressures, and life in general have a way of creating words that cause us to transgress. The reaction might be towards a situation or person, but the transgression is ultimately against the Lord.
David had determined and decided beforehand that he was not going to let his mouth get him into trouble. At times he requested for God to keep a watch at the door of his lips (Ps. 141:3). At other times he said he would put a bridle on his own mouth (Ps. 39:1). And he even advised others that if they want to love life, they should keep their tongue from evil (Ps. 34:12-13).
Purposing the mouth to not transgress is a goal, a challenge, and wise advice each individual should accept. The mouth can hurt those closest, damage a reputation, and burn bridges. On the other hand, the mouth has power to build up, be a medicine, and show affection and appreciation. The mouth can start a fire or quench a fire. Purpose in your heart that your mouth will not transgress.