James 3:5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!
There are some very interesting things to discover from this verse. We see the context for the point being made by declaring that the tongue is small, but it can cause big problems. The verse says the tongue is “boasting great things.” We see the motivation for the tongue’s words are self-centered and arrogant. The truth is the words are shallow because there is nothing to back up the claims. These boastful words come from a completely human (fleshly) standpoint. Man can brag about what he can do but it is only “wells without water.” (2 Peter 2:17)
What man can do on his own is start a fire. Small words can spark a devastating wildfire that consumes and destroys. Prideful motivations can do great harm. Whoever came up with the thought that “sticks and stones may break my bones, but words can never hurt me” could not be farther from the truth. Words can cause “great” harm that can last a lifetime.
Let us all consider a different path. Let us adopt Psalm 19:14 as the motivation behind our words. Psalm 19:14 – “Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O LORD, my strength, and my redeemer.” Let us use our tongue for edification, praise, witnessing for our Lord, and being a blessing. Instead of needing to put out fires, let’s not start them.
In Christ's Service,
Bro. Adrian Moore
2 Cor. 4:5
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