“The tongue is a small thing, but what enormous damage it can do. A great forest can be set on fire by one tiny spark. The tongue . . . can turn our whole lives into a blazing flame of destruction and disaster.”
James 3:5-6 (TLB)
When we don’t have self-control in our life, we’re vulnerable to all kinds of problems.
Anything out of control in your life can harm other people and damage your close relationships. Uncontrolled anger, addiction, spending, or ambition can create enormous problems. But the greatest destroyer of relationships is an uncontrolled tongue.
The average person has 30 conversations a day. That means you will spend one-fifth of your life talking. At some point, your mouth will probably get you into trouble.
James compares the tongue to a tiny spark because that’s all that is needed to create a great forest fire. A careless word can ignite your relationships and make them all go up in smoke.
Have you ever met a verbal arsonist?
Their words are dangerous. They use words of discouragement and criticism. Gossip is especially destructive because it spreads like an airborne virus. Careless words have destroyed careers, friendships, and families.
Instead, use your words to build others up. Catch people doing something right and tell them about it. Affirm their character when they make difficult decisions. Lift them up with words of encouragement. Building others up with your words isn’t difficult, but in our world, it is uncommon.
You reflect God’s glory in a dark world when you are wise with your words.
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This devotional came from the Open Doors: A Year of Daily Devotions by Rick Warren. You can get it HERE.
Take a moment to consider the impact of your words before you utter them. Ask yourself if what you’re about to say is necessary, helpful, and respectful.