June 20, 2015
Scripture Reading: James 3:3-10
3When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 5Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 6The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
7All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.
Questions for Reflection:
What does James compare the tongue to in verses 3 and 4? Why does the tongue have so much control in our lives? What does James compare the tongue to in verses 5 and 6? In what have you seen this comparison played out either in your life or in the lives of those around you? Why is it so difficult to control our tongues? James highlights that out of our mouths we can both praise God and curse others. James states the obvious; “My brothers and sisters, this should not be.” Ask God to make you more conscious about building others up and praising Him more today. Make Him the focus of your conversations today.