Taming the Tongue

Read James 3:1-2

James 3:1–2 NIV

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check.

1. Words That Shape Our World:

The Power of Words in Creation and Destruction:

Words are not mere sounds; they carry the power to shape reality. Just as God spoke the world into existence, our words have the power to build up or tear down.

Illustration: Imagine a child who is constantly told they are worthless. Over time, these words can destroy their self-esteem and future potential. Conversely, a word of encouragement can ignite a spark that leads to greatness.

The Responsibility of Teachers:

As those who teach, whether in a formal setting or through example, we have a heightened responsibility. Our words carry weight, influencing others' beliefs and actions.

Illustration: A teacher once told a young Albert Einstein that he would never amount to anything. This could have crushed his spirit, but thankfully, it didn’t. However, it reminds us that our words can either be a stumbling block or a stepping stone for others.

Read James 3:3-12

James 3:3–12 NIV

When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or 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. Likewise, 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. The 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. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

2. Controlling the Tongue

The Dangerous Potential of the Tongue:

James likens the tongue to a small spark that can set an entire forest ablaze. This metaphor underscores the potential for great harm if our words are not controlled.

The tongue can poison relationships, causing divisions in families, churches, and communities. Words spoken in anger or haste can leave lasting scars, often more painful than physical wounds.

Illustration: Consider the story of a wildfire caused by a single spark from a campfire. The small flame, if left unchecked, can grow into a massive inferno, destroying everything in its path. Similarly, an unguarded word can lead to devastation far beyond what was intended.

Tongue’s Power:

Bits in a Horse’s Mouth: A small piece of metal controls a powerful animal. In the same way, our tongues, though small, have the power to direct the course of our lives.

Rudder of a Ship: A massive ship is guided by a small rudder. Our words steer the direction of our lives, determining our relationships and reputations.

Fire: A small spark can ignite a forest fire. Words, once spoken, can cause irreversible damage, spreading like wildfire through gossip or slander.

Illustration: A famous fable tells of a man who spread rumors about his neighbor. Realizing the harm he had done, he sought to make amends. The wise man he consulted told him to scatter feathers from a pillow all over town and then try to collect them back. The man realized it was impossible, just as it was impossible to take back the words he had spoken.

Read James 3:13-18

James 3:13–18 NIV

Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom. But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual, demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice. But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.

3. Wisdom from Above

The Contrast Between Earthly and Heavenly Wisdom:

Earthly wisdom is often self-centered, leading to envy, strife, and disorder. In contrast, heavenly wisdom is pure, peace-loving, considerate, and full of mercy.

Earthly wisdom seeks personal gain, often at the expense of others. It is driven by ambition and pride. Heavenly wisdom reflects the character of Christ, promoting peace, humility, and righteousness.

Illustration: Picture two gardens: one is overgrown with weeds, representing earthly wisdom, choked by selfish desires and conflicts. The other is well-tended, full of life and beauty, representing heavenly wisdom that yields a harvest of righteousness.

Characteristics of Godly Wisdom:

Pure: It is free from ulterior motives and self-interest.

Peace-loving: It seeks harmony rather than conflict.

Considerate: It is gentle and respectful in dealing with others.

Submissive: It is willing to listen and be persuaded.

Full of Mercy and Good Fruit: It is compassionate and produces good deeds.

Impartial and Sincere: It is consistent and genuine, not hypocritical.

Illustration: A well-respected leader is one who embodies these qualities. Think of a mentor or elder in the church whose wisdom is evident in their calm demeanor, thoughtful words, and acts of kindness. Their life is a testimony to the power of godly wisdom in action.

Conclusion: Speaking Life with a Tamed Tongue

As we conclude, let's reflect on the immense power that lies in the words we speak. James has shown us that the tongue, though small, wields great influence over our lives and the lives of those around us. It can bless or curse, build up or tear down, depending on how we choose to use it.

Applications:

Guard Your Words:

This week, be intentional about the words you speak. Before responding in anger or frustration, take a moment to pause and consider the impact of your words. Ask yourself, “Is this going to build up or tear down?”

Practical Step: Try to implement a “pause and pray” habit. Before saying something difficult or responding to a challenging situation, pause for a few seconds to pray for wisdom and grace.

Speak Life and Encouragement:

Make a conscious effort to speak words of encouragement to those around you. Your words can be a source of healing and hope. Remember, it only takes a few kind words to lift someone’s spirit.

Practical Step: Each day, find at least one person to affirm or encourage. This could be as simple as thanking someone for their work, offering a compliment, or sharing a scripture that has encouraged you.

Seek Godly Wisdom in Your Speech:

Let your words reflect the wisdom from above—pure, peace-loving, considerate, full of mercy. When you’re in a situation where you’re unsure how to respond, seek God’s guidance. Allow His wisdom to shape your speech.

Practical Step: Memorize a scripture that reminds you of the importance of godly speech, such as Psalm 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”

By taming our tongues, we can transform our relationships, foster unity, and glorify God in our everyday conversations. Let’s commit to using our words wisely, speaking life and truth into the world around us.