James 3:3 – 6 “When we put bits into the mouths of the horses to make them obey us, we can guide the whole animal. Consider ships as well. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot is inclined. In the same way, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it boasts of great things. Consider how small a spark sets a great forest ablaze. The tongue also is a fire, a world of wickedness among the parts of the body. It pollutes the whole person, sets the course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.”
Once upon a time, the various body parts had a meeting to decide who was the most powerful part of the body. “I am!” said the Legs. “I can run and jump and do all sorts of things.” “I am,” said the Brain. “If I don’t think of something, the rest of you will have nothing to do.” “ Many of the other Body parts came up with arguments as to their own importance. Finally, there was silence. “Well,” said the Tongue, “I am not very big and I am not very strong, but whatever I say will determine what the rest of you get to do.” The rest of the Body parts agreed that the Tongue was correct.
The big on a horse’s bridle is only about 4 inches long, but it is placed next to the horse’s tongue, a very sensitive part of the body. A huge horse is controlled by a small bit. And it’s true that ships that are far larger than the ones with which James was familiar are steered successfully with relatively small rudders.
Many times it is the things that we do not say that are as important as the things that we do say. How many of us have said something, only to heartily wish later on that we had kept quiet? How many of us have added that last point to an argument, only to realize that we have just defeated ourselves?
If we are going to be true followers of God, we must watch what we say carefully and realize that there is always potential for someone to misunderstand us. One of my friends posted something on Facebook to support a certain point, only to be severely criticized by a stranger who had misunderstood the stance my friend took. At that point, explanations were useless.
The Psalmist said in Psalm 140:3 – 4 “Set a guard, O LORD, over my mouth; keep watch at the door of my lips. Do not let my heart be to any evil thing or take part in works of wickedness…” Let this be the prayer all of us keep before us!
PRAYER: Father God, do set a guard over our mouths and our lips! Do not allow our hearts turn to wickedness! Help us ever to speak life – giving encouragement to those around us. Thank you for your Goodness! Thank you for yoru Grace! Thank you for your Faithfulness! And thank you most of all for your Love. In the mighty Name of King Jesus. Amen.
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