Read: James 3:3-8

James has been talking about walking one's talk - living out our relationship with God by doing what he asks, doing the right things. He now applies this to the topic of saying the right things.

Citing the examples of the thing you use to steer a horse, and the rudder which steers a boat, James says the tongue is a small thing with great power. We do much damage with the things we say to people.

It's a little surprising that of all the "sins" James can go after, he is particularly concerned about the hurtful, insulting, degrading things we can say to each other. But then if you have been at the receiving end of a mean comment, you know the damage words can do. So much for sticks and stone.

Write
Think about your faith story: how have you experienced the power of damaging words? How have you hurt others with your words?

In what relationships do you find your tongue most out of control?

Who do you know have suffered from something you have said?

Pray
What is God saying to you today?

Talk to God about your experience of hurtful words. Tell him about those who have said hurtful things to you, and about those you have hurt.

Talk to God about the relationship where you find hard to control your tongue. Ask God to give you insights about why you feel powerless in this relationship.

Pray for your friend who may still be hurting from something you said. Ask God for the wisdom to seek forgiveness.

Pray for an experience of God's love, grace and mercy as the Spirit shows you the power of your words, and coach you to harness that power.