Fasting from words isn’t a test to find out who can be the most disciplined or who can scrutinize their words more thoroughly. It’s about setting apart time to commune with the Lord, being mindful of Him everywhere you go, and putting Him first in everything you do. It’s about getting intimate with Jesus in quietness and humility. The fruitfulness we want in our words flows forth from intimacy, since all fruitfulness comes from intimacy with Jesus.

In Psalm 141:3 the psalmist prays in essence, “Lord, would You do for me that which I obviously can’t do for myself? Guard my mouth and watch over my lips.” We have all spoken words of judgment, criticism, sarcasm, negativity, complaining, and gossip. They escape from our mouths so quickly. They slip past our lips while we’re not paying attention. It is only by the Spirit of the Lord that there is hope of bringing our words under His governance.

By fasting from words, we can empty ourselves as much as possible of our own spirit and the words that aren’t edifying so that we might take on more of the Holy Spirit and the words He would speak through us. The old has to leave to make room for the new.

As you make a point to avoid words of judgment, criticism, sarcasm, negativity, complaining, or gossip, ask the Lord throughout the day, “What words would You have me speak?” He will show you. You don’t have to go it alone. He wants to help you guard your lips.

Throughout the day, pay attention to how God helps guard your lips and invite Him to put His words in your mouth. If any words come out of your mouth today that you need to repent of, do so. Ask the Holy Spirit to touch your heart and keep those words out of your mouth tomorrow.