Bridling the Tongue

Written by Roxanne Rogiers

Throughout our lives we go through a plethora of experiences. Our whirlwind journey consists of tears and triumphs, joy and and sorrow. However, through it all, we do not go on our journey alone. The Word of God is alive and Scripture contains words of wisdom that we can take with us to wherever our individual journeys lead us. This Book of James study contains invaluable life lessons that will guide you through your journey.

James 3:1-12

Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judgedmore strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. 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. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

Return to Words of Wisdom from the Book of James Index Page

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1. In James we read that teachers will be judged more strictly. Why do you think that is?
2. How might one stumble as a member of Christ’s body (v.2)?
3. Do you believe that the tongue is a restless evil? If so, how have you learnt to deal with it? If not, what do you think the tongue is like?
4. Though it is little, what can the tongue do?
5. Have you ever said something you deeply regretted afterwards? Explain what happened. More thoughts...
Remember if we confess our sins to Jesus, He is faithful and just to forgive us of all our unrighteousness.
6. How do you most often use your tongue?
7. Are you always able to control what you say? Recall a time when you successfully kept the tongue reigned in.
8. How can we pray for you?
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