Scripture Meditation

For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God.
James 3:7-9

Today’s Thought

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me. False. Words have tremendous power. The power to heal and the power to hurt. Encouraging words given in a moment of despair can have a life-giving impact on someone. On the flip side, careless words uttered in a moment of anger can stay with someone for a lifetime. Gossip, slander, curses, negative self-talk. They all have a detrimental impact on others, including ourselves. To top it off, all of these words are directed toward someone created in the image of God.

From James’s perspective, it’s easier to tame and control a great white shark or a grizzly bear than it is to tame and control our tongues. In order words, it’s more or less impossible. On our own, that is. With God’s help through his Holy Spirit, it is possible. Ephesians 4:29 encourages us to “let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Be an encouragement to others today.

Prayer

Lord, help me to tame my tongue, to think before I speak. May my words be a source of encouragement to someone else today.