| James 3:2-5 – “For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also, the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire.” |
One of the common problems of most people is what comes out of their mouth.
For some, it is talking too much.
Others talk about what they don’t need to talk about at all….something like gossip.
Others speak for others rather than letting them speak for themselves.
When James writes his letter, he spends a fair amount of time on the concept of the tongue. He knows that the tongue of man is often out of control, wreaking havoc in both their lives and the lives of others.
He illustrates this problem when he says:
“For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also, the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!” (James 3:2–5)
So where do we find the bit for our mouth to steer us correctly or the rudder to go in the right direction as far as our words are concerned?
The Irish comedian Craig Ferguson is known for his late-night, very late-night talk show. For many years, he occupied the slot after midnight. Needless to say, he did not have a vast audience.
He had to interview people and also entertain. But he was always careful of what he said. He knew that offense could happen and he needed to control himself to control the flow of the interview.
He had three questions he asked himself as he prepared to speak:
Does this need to be said?
Does this need to be said by me?
Does this need to be said by me now?
I found the questions interesting. They would provide the steering of the mouth.
Some things don’t need to be said at all. So don’t say them.
Some things don’t need to be said by me. So don’t steal someone else’s story.
Some things, while you can say them, it is best not to now. And now may be never.
Remember James’ admonition. A great forest is set ablaze by a small fire.
Use your words and your speech carefully. And ask yourself the question to prevent saying the wrong thing.
–Robert G. Taylor
robertgtaylor.com
