The Untamable Tongue

James 3:8 “But no man can tame the tongue. It is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison” [NKJV]

In the book of James chapter 3 verses 1-12 the author writes about the tongue and gives practical instructions about what a person says, and the words that they use.

A person should always try to use wisdom with their words and speech. Once words have been said, they cannot be taken back. What is said can be encouraging, comforting and supportive or, can do damage that can be irreversible.  

The tongue is one of the smallest members of our bodies but has enormous power and if allowed, it will take full control of what is said or done.

James chapter 3 gives several descriptions about the tongue:

Vs 3 compares the tongue as bits that guides horses

Vs 4 compares the tongue as a rudder on large ships

Vs 5 describes the tongue as a little member that boasts great things

Vs 6 describes the tongue as a small fire that can be the cause of a great fire

Vs 6 also describes the tongue as a world of iniquity that can defile the whole body

Vs 8 the tongue is untamable and full of deadly poison

Vs 9 with the same tongue blessings and curses proceed out of the mouth

James chapter 1:19 “So then, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath”

Paying close attention to what is being said helps with slowing down an angry response.

James chapter 1:26 “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but decides his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.”

We can’t always respond with the first thing that comes to our mind.

James chapter 4:11 “Do not speak evil of one another, brethren. He who speaks evil of a brother and judges his brother, speaks evil of the law and judges the law.”

Words spoken about someone should be positive and uplifting.

Colossians 4:6”Let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer each one.”

In our daily conversation with others, the words that are used should be holy, courteous, desirable, full of wisdom and respectful. The words that are used should not only honor God, but also be encouraging to others that are around us that can hear what is being said.

Proverbs 15:1-2 “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger. Vs.2 The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness.” [NKJV]

Father in heaven, may our speech and the words are said out of our mouths, always magnify and glorify You and Your kingdom, in Jesus name…Amen!

Continuing in His service Rev