The Book of James: 3:3-12 (NLT)

WOW - James gives us many illustrations of how powerful a little member of the body, the tongue, can be. He starts by describing how a mighty horse can be directed because of a small metal piece, called a bit. A bit is put into a horse's mouth which is connected to the bridle and reins. The rider is able to communicate with the horse and can direct it where to go by pulling on the reins which put pressure on the horse's mouth.

He goes on to describe how a large ship can be steered and controlled by the pilot because of a small metal or wooden piece attached to the ship called a rudder. As the rudder turns the ship can change course and go in a different direction.

Man is able to tame animals and control man-made resources (ships, equipment, machines) with the use of very small items or instruments, but when it comes to the tongue, that is a different story. The tongue is a very small member of the body, but it is so powerful that even Christians have trouble controlling it. It can produce evil and good. It can praise God and then curse man who is made in the image of God. This should not be.

Luke 6:45 says “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart produces good, and the evil person out of his evil treasure produces evil, for out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.” The advice that James gives to “be slow to speak” is both wise and practical.

If you find yourself guilty and have an untamed or uncontrolled tongue, the good news is that the Holy Spirit can help you. Here are some verses you can meditate on:

“Set a guard over my mouth, LORD; keep watch over the door of my lips” -Psalm 141:3

“The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing” -Prov 12:18

Psalm 19:14- “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength.”

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: And they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” –Proverbs 18:21

Closing Prayer: Lord, I thank You for being my rock of peace. When I am feeling uncertain, I rely on You for strength and comfort. The presence of Your Holy Spirit brings an inexplicable peace to my heart. I am blessed to have You in my life, and I know that I am always protected and at peace in Jesus name Amen.

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