James 3:1-12
Today's Scripture

We all know the childhood rhyme: "Sticks and stones can break my bones, but words can never hurt me." But even as children, we knew those words weren't really true--sticks and stones could cause physical hurt, but those wounds could heal. Words that tear down and insult go to our very hearts and can be lodged there for years, if not a lifetime.

Our tongue is such a small part of our physical body. But, as Paul points out, it is like a bit in the mouth of a horse--it can turn the whole body. We can cause much damage by what we say, so we should guard our language carefully.

Our tongues should be used to sing praise to God and to help others. True, there are times when we need to correct others, but this should always be done in love. Another saying I recalled on an earlier blog is that we have two ears and only one mouth. Let us listen before we speak, and use our mouths to glorify God no matter what words we form.
- posted by Suzi @ 8:53 AM