James 3

James 3. Potent

James 3:1-18

SUMMARYPotent

OVERVIEWThe tongue reveals our maturity or immaturity, and true wisdom comes from God.

BIG IDEAThe tongue is small, but it can have a significant impact.

KEY VERSEJames 3:9 (speaking about the tongue)
Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God.

IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Each part of your body has value and purpose, and when one part suffers, the whole body suffers. But the tongue is one small portion that can radically determine whether you have a good day or a bad one. It is like a rudder that controls the direction of a ship. Your tongue can encourage, love, and praise, or it can destroy and deceive. One part of your body can lead you in both directions, multiple times a day.

I want you to have a direction that continues to point towards me. I want your “normal” to be words of praise, kindness, and affection. They won’t always be, however. And when that happens, be quick to confess and that will realign you on a path of life. Don’t focus on saying the right words. Focus on me. Talk to me throughout the day. Give up control and surrender to me by asking to be filled with the Spirit. Let me take you where you want to go. Stop and pray before speaking. You may not be able to do that all day, but the more you do, the more natural it will become.

NEXT STEP
Select one hour during the day where you consciously pray to be filled with God’s Spirit each time before speaking. See if you notice a difference. Reflect and discuss it with a friend.

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