I JUST CAN'T KEEP MY MOUTH SHUT

(Psalm 71:15-18, Jeremiah 20:9, Job 32:17 - 33:3)

If I say I will not mention God,

Or speak anymore in His name,

When it comes to the love of my life,

My tongue I cannot tame.

For in my heart is a burning fire;

It is smoldering in my bones.

I am weary of holding it in;

The Spirit within me groans.

I too will have my say;

I will tell others why I live free.

For I am full of words,

And the Spirit within compels me.

Inside I’m like bottled-up wine,

Or new wineskins ready to burst.

I must speak and find relief,

From the words that are immersed.

I will show partiality to no one,

Nor will I flatter with ease,

For if I were skilled in flattery,

My Maker I would not please.

Now, listen to my words;

They’re on the tip of my tongue.

I’m about to open my mouth;

They are worthy to be sung.

My lips speak of what I know.

They come from an upright heart.

But the problem has always been,

I can’t shut up once I start.

Becky Overturf Wall