Tame Your Tongue

Tame Your Tongue

Q: James says the tongue is a

• a. flame of fire.
• b. fountain of wisdom.
• c. well of great depth.

The book of James, written by Jesus’ brother James, is a practical book that shows us how to live the Christian life. James confronts sin, challenges the believer to do the right thing, and calls on Christians to be committed to God.

You might expect James to tackle what people consider the big sins, but he doesn’t. One thing he speaks about is the tongue. Using the tongue in wrong ways—gossiping, cutting others down, being rude, talking back—might not seem like a big deal, but it is. A spark in dry grass can quickly spread into a wildfire that destroys everything in its way. The tongue is the same. The spark of an unkind or untruthful word can quickly build and destroy friendships, trust, and self-esteem.

Words can wound a person, and the damage can’t be undone. Words can’t be taken back or unsaid. You can apologize to a friend for saying something unkind during an argument, but the harm is done, and you’ll both remember what was said.

It’s better to stop and think before you speak. If you do speak during an argument, your words should focus on how you feel (“I’m upset because . . .” or “I feel hurt because . . .”) rather than accusing the other person (“You always . . .” or “You’re such a . . .”).

Words can hurt, but they can also heal, encourage, teach, and inspire. Use your words for good today.

For You

Make it a point today to encourage someone with your words. A few well-spoken words can make the day for another person.

Answer: a

The tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.   James 3:6

(The Whole Story: James 3:1-12)