Our Tongue

James 3:1-6

 My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

I'm sure all of us have had moments when our tongue has gotten us in trouble! Our tongue may be a small part of our body, but it can do much damage.

James tells us that anyone who does not offend someone with their words is perfect. Controlling the tongue is a difficult matter and since Christ is the only perfect man on earth, we can only pray to control our tongue through His strength.

Our tongue can start a great fire; it can be a destroying fire or helping someone become on fire for God. Let us be careful of what we allow to come out of our mouths. May it lift and edify and be to God's glory.