Click here to go to James 3
Oh the power of the tongue....
2 Indeed,
we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we
would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.
So very, very true, but I love how the chapter closes:
17 But
the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving,
gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy
and good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. 18 And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.
I tend to be a person that tries to help find peace in situations. I like the idea of reaping a harvest of righteousness.
James 3
ReplyDeleteSpeak Wisely, vs. 1-12
4 Have you ever seen a massive ship sailing effortlessly across the water? Despite its immense size and the fact that it is propelled by mighty winds, a small rudder directs the ship in any direction the pilot chooses.
5 It's just the same with our tongues! It's a small muscle, capable of marvelous undertakings.
8 But no man has ever demonstrated the ability to tame his own tongue! It is a spring of restless evil, brimming with toxic poisons.
9 Ironically this same tongue can be both an instrument of blessing to our Lord and Father and a weapon that hurls curses upon others who are created in God's own image.
Live Wisely, vs. 13-18
13 Who in your community is understanding and wise? Let his example, which is marked by wisdom and gentleness, blaze a trail for others.
17 Heavenly wisdom centers on purity, peace, gentleness, deference, mercy, and other good fruits untainted by hypocrisy.
18 The seed that flowers into righteousness will always be planted in peace by those who embrace peace.
Proverbs
10:19 When there are many words, transgression is unavoidable, But he who restrains his lips is wise.
18:21 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, And those who love it will eat its fruit.