July 19, 2014

James 3: 17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. James has been talking about the untamed tongue. People can tame wild animals easier than they can tame their own tongues. The same tongue that praises God curses your fellow man. Instead of depending on your own, sometimes selfish and greedy impulses, rely on the Father's wisdom. Here we go with the tongue again. Can we confine our speech to the pure, peace-loving, sincere talk that God would approve of? Sadly, we don't. Are we considerate and submissive? Not so much. Are our words full of mercy? They turn cruel and judgmental. I know this, because I do this and then I go home and regret my words. Prayer: Lord, I want my words to shine with heavenly wisdom. Please let me know when I stray from considerate lines of thought. Guide me to speak mercifully to and about Your people. Let my thoughts and words reflect Your holy will for my life. Amen