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Today’s reading: James 2-4, Proverbs 4

James 3:2-5
2 For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body. 3 Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. 4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles!

The Bible tells us that death and life are in the power of the tongue – Prov. 18:21. I have discovered this to be true. I am sure you have as well. In today’s passage it tells us our tongue has the power to turn around our body. It is compared to the rudder on a ship that can change the course of a huge vessel. It also is compared to the kindling that starts a huge forest fire.

I am sure you have observed a huge relationship fire start with the small kindling of words in the form of rumors. This passage goes on to say the only way to tame the tongue is to change the internal spring that fuels the words we speak. In other words the real problem with the tongue is a heart issue. Out of the abundance of the heart our mouth speaks.

If anyone does not stumble in word he is a perfect or mature man or woman. How we use our words – either to bless or curse, build up or tear down – is a spiritual gauge to our maturity. Today is comment day. I want to ask you to share with our blog family about how you have experienced the power of words in your life, good or bad. I look forward to reading and responding to your comments.

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