Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying; that it may minister grace unto the hearers; and grieve not the Holy Spirit of God. Let not filthiness be once named among you, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient. Ephesians 4:29. Ephesians 5:4.
Idle words are hurtful words; they grieve the Holy Spirit, destroy what power has been obtained by prayer, and cause nothing but levity and distraction of mind: let this be a caution against talking too much; for if it does not tend to the glory of God, it is nothing but corrupt communication. May all Christians take heed to refrain their tongues, and never speak unadvisedly, but always consider first whether their words can be profitable to others and acceptable to God in heaven.
O Lord, teach me by thy wisdom to put a lock to my mouth, and to weigh every word like gold. Let my heart and lips be moved and governed by thy Holy Spirit, that both my silence and talking may be according to thy will and direction. Grant that I may always chiefly converse with thee in prayer and thanksgiving, for the good of my own soul and others. And whenever I am to open my lips in due time, let my words be so seasoned and blessed as to administer grace to the hearers.
So let our lips and lives express
The holy gospel we profess;
So let our words and virtues shine,
To prove the doctrine all divine.