In Jolly Old England, the following epitaph is written on a tombstone:  “Beneath this tomb, a lump of clay, lyes Ervella Young, who on the 24^th of May began to hold her tongue.”  Holding our tongues is something we all struggle with.  In fact, it is probably the most challenging thing we will ever face.

James gives us six reasons why it is important for us to watch our words (James 3:1-12).  In this article, we will look at the first three reasons.

1.  Because of Potential Judgment (v. 1).  James urges Christians to be careful about becoming a teacher of the Word of God.  The Reason: Because teachers will be judged more strictly.  There are so many ways a teacher can misuse his or her tongue.

 

Error                                                              Misrepresent                                    Tickle ears

Deception                                                        Unprepared

Self-seeking                                                     Neglect

 

Matthew 12:34-37.  Jesus said that our words will either acquit us or condemn us.  We will all give an account for our words at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:10).

 

2.  Because of Our Sinful Ways (v. 2a).  “We all stumble in many ways.”  It is a picture of slipping when we are off our guard, or stumbling over something in our path.  There are so many ways we can be sinful with our tongues.

 

Lying                                                                Slanderous                                          Gossiping

Deceitful                                                           Crafty                                                 Cursing

False                                                                Backbiting

 

No wonder God put our tongues in a cage behind our teeth, walled in by our mouths.

 

3.  Because of its Great Power (vv. 2b-5a).  Just as the bit in a horse’s mouth is small, but it controls the whole body, and the rudder on a ship is small, but it controls a ship that weighs tons, so also the tongue is small, but it is powerful.  Our tongues can…

·        Build up others or tear them down.

·        Encourage others or discourage them.

·        Bring joy to others or crush their spirits.

 

In the next article, I will give you the final three reasons we should watch our words.  The radio program in October will be on the subject of controlling our tongues.  You can listen to it on this website or on the local station if you live in the Merced area.  Click “about” to get the station and times it is broadcast.