The Human Tongue

“When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 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 3:3-6

            Just as one word from God can change one’s situation forever in a good way, one word from the mouth of a man can bring havoc, pain and in the end, destruction. Fortunately, we serve a God who understands us better than we understand ourselves. He is infinitely patient and kind, yet not hesitant to chide or punish when necessary to pull any one of us back onto the path He’s set for us.

                  The tongue is an interesting tool that is at our disposal 24/7 to say whatever our minds trigger us to say. What comes out depends almost entirely on what you feed in. The ever popular computer jargon “garbage in, garbage out” applies here. It only stands to reason that if you feed in things that are positive, loving, edifying, encouraging and Godly then that is what’s going to come out. How could it not? But feed in anger, hate, discord, profanity, pornography, and anything else THIS world has to offer, well, I think you can imagine what results you’d get.

                   “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” ^{[Romans 12:2]}

We must allow our minds to be directed by the Holy Spirit. We must feed ourselves things that are pleasing to God. Only then can we expect the full measure of God’s mercy and grace to be realized in our lives.

                  We should definitely take the time to thank God for His infinite patience toward us. We are unequivocally unworthy of His favor; however, He has chosen to bathe us in His grace. Thank God He doesn’t act on our behalf based on what we deserve. Unmerited favor is what grace is all about. May we never treat it as a cheap thing. Until next time, walk with the King and be a blessing!

In His Name & for His Glory,

RL Keller

Bread of Life Ministry