THE POWER OF THE TONGUE
“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.” James 3:6 NIV
Fire is an interesting metaphor to use to describe something dangerous but still useful. If used appropriately, it can keep you warm, prepare your food and other things. If used haphazardly, it can burn down a forest, belongings, property and scar you for life.
The tongue, as small as it is, is not any different. If used for praise, building up, compliments, instruction and affirmation, it can build people and nations. It makes people feel loved, and have a positive outlook on life. Most importantly, it is a form of worship because through that, we agree with God that found good in His creation (Genesis 1:31).
On the opposite side, if used to gossip, tear down, yell, discourage, backbite, or insult — it tears nations, breaks relationships, scars people for life and create a chasm by bringing death where you could bring life.
So child of God, use your tongue wisely. Confess right, impute righteousness as you cover your brothers and sisters. Look for the good in people, correct and rebuke in love, and most of all let the love of God be felt from how you care for others.
Prayer: My Father, thank you for this word. I thank you for the grace you have showed us through our blueprint Jesus Christ. May it be said of me that I honored you, spoke life, blessed and imputed righteousness with my tongue in all my dealings, to the glory of your name. Amen.
CI.
RELATED RESOURCES
• Matthew 12:36
• Proverbs 18:21
• Proverbs 15:2
