In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.
Father, You warn me to be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath. He who is slow to anger is better than the mighty, and he who rules his spirit than he who takes a city. If I do not stumble in word, I am a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. For by my words I will be justified, and by my words I will be condemned. Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.
Your Son, Jesus, suffered for me, leaving me an example, that I should follow His steps: who committed no sin, nor was deceit found in His mouth; when He was reviled, did not revile in return; when He suffered, He did not threaten, but committed Himself to You who judge, righteously. I consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest I become weary and discouraged in my soul.
In my mouth may there be found no deceit, for I am without fault before Your throne.
Lord, only in Your power and by Your grace can I learn to control my tongue.