Speech Lessons: Learning God's Language

Genuine faith involves controlling our tongue, because words can do great damage. And James 3:1-12 is a reminder of this truth.

 

The first verse talks about higher standards for teachers because their words have greater influence. 

Then James admits that we all “stumble.” 

How do people stumble with their tongues:

By sharing lies, half-truths, gossip, and slander. 

By flattering or misleading someone. 

With boasting, angry rants, and hateful statements. 

By remaining quiet when we should speak up. 

 

James 3:3-6 goes on to remind us that small things can have enormous consequences. Lighting a small match can set an entire forest ablaze and a few short sentences can light or extinguish an argument.

 
As our love and dependence for God grows, so should our ability to speak truth graciously, honestly, and unashamedly (Romans 12:2).

 

That's why it's good to periodically examine our speech and ponder the strong teachings of Scripture so we can continually grow more faithful in our speech. 

 

So please consider reading at least one of the additional 1-minute devotions below. And please take a few minutes to carefully and prayerfully read the passages below.

 

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Devotions: 
Seasoned with Salt 

Do You Know What Makes a Fool Look Wise?

Is It Just My Imagination, or Is “Rude” the New Normal?  

 

 

Don't be a blabbermouth! 

Proverbs 10:19-21: Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut. The words of the godly are like sterling silver; the heart of a fool is worthless. The words of the godly encourage many,  but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense.

 

Consider how your words might encourage a friend going through difficulty. 

Proverbs 12:25: Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.

Proverbs 16:24: Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

 

Never forget this important warning. 

Matthew 12:34-37: You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”