James 1: 26
If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.
Our words betray us so often. Well, mine do. In an effort to be humorous, I may find myself being judgmental or mean-spirited. When I am angry or hurt, my words come out as tiny weapons, and I imagine myself defended somehow. My ”weapon“ is the Holy Spirit, in me, guiding me to a better choice. Why do I turn away from this better choice? It is not the easiest choice. It takes discipline and effort. But it rewards.
Father God, help me to slow down, to turn to you, and to consider, before I say or do anything without thinking. Amen
Becky, transforming
James 1: 13 How many times have we heard, “If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all.” If only I could remember this when ever I am confronted in any confrontation. We have been told that the tongue is the strongest muscle in the body. Whether this a fact or fiction the tongue is definitely the most powerful. So, how do we tame a muscle that can bring blessings or curses. I think of all the books in the Bible Proverbs has the majority of verses about the tongue.(27)God tells us in His Word that the tongue has incredible power. Another saying "sticks and stones can break my bones but words will never hurt me" i…
James 1:26 If you claim to be religious but don’t control your tongue, you’re fooling yourself, and your religion is worthless. With this verse and several others in his letter to Christians who are scattered because of persecution, James focuses on our words. What we say and how we say them often reveals our true hearts. How often have we regretted something we said only to realize there is no way to “take it back.” Once said, always remembered. Like most of us, I know I have been guilty of this. I have learned to take a deep breath and stop and think before I say something hurtful. I have found that becoming a listener helps. Just listen with no expectation o…
James 1: 26 Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless.
This verse speaks of gossip to me. How often have I gotten caught up in a conversation that turned to gossip? I have to admit that I have been guilty of this sin. So as I continue on this journey I will put a bridle on my tongue and attempt to leave the gossip behind.
Dearest Lord, you have given me free will. I will attempt to use this free will to do what is right and keep away from spreading rumors. Send the Holy Spirit to my heart to strengthen it against si…
James 1:26
A decided majority of the difficult moments experienced throughout my life have stemmed directly from a failure to rein in snarky, angry or arrogant tongue. These failures have never ended well, yet I still have the propensity to forget their lessons and have to be taught again. Wouldn’t it be much better to carry James’ words in my heart and stop the sin before it begins?
Prayer - Holy Spirit, focus my mind at times when I am tempted to unleash a hurtful tongue and bring to mind the words of James instead of a cutting remark. Amen
TAA