Life and the Tongue
BIBLE VERSE FOR TODAY… “For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” James 3:2 ESV
Solomon put it well when he said, “When there are many words, sin is unavoidable, but the one who controls his lips is wise.” (Proverbs 10:19 HCSB)
There is an occupational hazard for those of us whose work is words. What we say can be wrong, it can be taken wrong, we can be too quick to quip. I believe I have experienced all of that an more. James begins by point to teachers, those who world is made up of words. But that brings us to the first observation.
Words matter. Teaching the wrong thing can as damaging as the physicians misdiagnosis or the mechanics error. Whether it is in an “official” capacity or in common conversation the words we speak, the words we use do have an impact.
Words guide. James says, “Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs.” (James 3:4 ESV)
Have you heard someone hesitate to speak and say, “I don’t want to go there.” That is an indication that the words they wanted to speak would take a conversation or a relationship in a certain direction. That’s why Solomon said, “…he one who controls his lips is wise.” It is easy to speak, hard to “hold the tongue.” Earlier James said, “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak…” (James 1:19 NIV)
Words can harm. “How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness.” (James 3:5 ESV) Sometimes it just takes a few words to launch an argument and create conflict. Often the words that are spoken in haste or anger can have lingering affects. How often, are there those who have the hurtful words of the past echoing in their minds and hearts.
Words contradict. “With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.” (James 3:9 ESV) With out tongues we speak love and hate. We speak praise to God and condemnation of others for whom Christ died and God loves.
The consistency challenge is certainly seen in our words. Perhaps that is why heaven is filled with just praise to the Lord. Our focus and interaction is the Lord and life in His presence. As a result, the gossip, carping criticism and sarcasm that is so prevalent in human relationships will be missing.
Our prayer needs to echo that of David’s, “May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, LORD, my Rock and my Redeemer.” (Psalm 19:14 NIV)
Prayer for today…. Lord help us to be mindful of the words we speak. Grant us a heart that reflects your nature, so our words will be, “always full of grace, seasoned with salt.” (Colossians 4:6)