James 3:1-12 New International Version (NIV)
Taming the Tongue
3 Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. 2 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.
3 When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. 4 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.
5 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. 6 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.
7 All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, 8 but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.
9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.
TAMING THE TONGUE ~ as we become closer to God, we will find our languages changes. The negative is cast away and the positive one flow. Speaking life to ourselves and we begin to learn of God's ways. The tongue can be used both in negative and postiive ways. Yet, you can have both in one body. God's word is positive and can flow in words of your own. As you continue on reading in James chapter 3, you will find that wisdom is needed.
James 3:17-18 New International Version (NIV)17 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. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
PEACEMAKERS ~
It is important to know when to speak and when to be quiet. Sometimes we just need to listen and let our words be few. Part of that is growing up and gaining wisdom. Have you ever just said something and wished your could take back those words? I have and then you deal with what you said. It's important to think before you speak and ask God to guide your words.
It's a new day and we can't take back what someone says to you. You can certainly learn from certain people who hurt you and realize that God gives you words to overcome. You are stronger than you might think and so created to be an example of good things. Through it all, trust God and become stronger and not bitter. The choice is truly yours.
My prayers are with you, your family and friends.
~ Sparkie