September 13, 2018
James 3:1-5 …“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great exploits. How great a forest is set ablaze by a small fire!” vs. 5
Most all of us at one time or another have been sabotaged by our tongues. We’re forever saying things that should have been left unsaid and then wishing that we’d kept our mouths shut or at least chosen other words. The problem is that once thoughts have been spoken it’s impossible to call them back again. Many times even deep and sincere apologies can’t erase the damage caused by a few careless or hurtful words. The painful exchanges are remembered for decades. This is where it’s a huge advantage to be an introvert, someone who thinks through what they are going to say before the words come out of their mouth. Often they can avoid saying the ugly things that have come to mind, but not always! All of us struggle to control our tongues–it’s one of the biggest challenges we face as followers of Jesus. What a blessing it is when we learn to use our tongues to affirm and compliment our friends and enemies! There are some who have made this an art. They carefully choose words that will lift up and not tear down; even their critiques are full of loving and caring phrases. We leave their presence renewed and invigorated by what we’ve heard. Our tongues can cause great damage but they can also bring healing and joy!
Thought for the Day: How will I use my tongue today?
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