James 3 - 6.28.23

Scripture

James 3:6-10

6 The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 

Observation

James speaks about our words and how it could either harm others or bring them to life. 

I thought verse 7 was interesting when it said that many different creatures have been tamed by mankind, but how no human being could tame the tongue. We definitely need the Holy Spirit to tame our tongue!

Application

Use our words to heal, instead of hurt.

The old saying, “If you don’t have anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all” holds true, even Scripturally. There’s a verse in Proverbs 17:28 that says, “Even a fool who keeps silent is considered wise.” Words also have the power to heal. Proverbs 12:25 says, “Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.”

None of us have to be taught how to use our words to complain, gossip, say inappropriate things or harm/destroy others. (Sadly, we ALL know how to do that.)  So, what are some wise things we can do with our words instead? We can pray and worship. We can memorize Scripture. We can honor others above ourselves. We can speak life, encouragement and comfort to someone who is feeling down. We can invite friends to church and to a relationship with Jesus. 

What are we going to do differently with our words today? How will using our words wisely change what we post or not post on social media?  How will it change our daily lives and how we relate to our spouses, family/friends, supervisors and even what we speak over ourselves? 

Prayer

Dear Jesus, 

I admit that I need Your help to control my heart, mind and what comes out of my mouth since Your Word says, “the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” (Matthew 12:34) Help me to always think before I speak and to focus on what You would say instead of what I want to say, especially in hard moments. May I use my words to encourage, comfort and speak life instead of death over others and myself. May I always point others to You Jesus, through what I say.  In Your name I pray, Amen. 

-Michelle Gaddi