James 3:2
The words from your mouth reveal your spiritual maturity level. I am not talking about how many Christian slogans and catch-phrases you toss into every conversation to impress others with how deep you are. I mean the kingdom truths you speak that reflect the God in you.
During our last study together, we examined the truths of James 3:1 and found that those who said God called them to the office of “teacher” will be judged by God Himself by a higher standard. Also, we concluded that we all teach daily – not just as ministers of God, but in our capacity of parent, neighbor, friend, etc. Therefore, we all should watch what we say. How relevant for today.
If you thought James 3:1 was relevant, James 3:2 is a real eye-opener. Read the Amplified Bible version slowly:
For we all stumble and sin in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says [never saying the wrong thing], he is a perfect man [fully developed in character, without serious flaws], able to bridle his whole body and rein in his entire nature [taming his human faults and weaknesses].
Wow! EVERYBODY says the wrong thing sooner or later. No pastor, teacher, evangelistic, prophet, parent, neighbor, friend, co-worker says the correct thing ALL OF THE TIME! They do not mean to miss the mark verbally. Sometimes, it is lack of knowledge. Sometimes, it is what they meant to say but it was not said in the most appropriate way. Sometimes, their humanity burst forth and they revealed their emotions rather than the Word of God, later deeply regretting the fruit of their lips.
Scholars and pastors have much to say about this verse:
- Dr. Tony Evans wrote about the tongue: “It’s like a master switch. Take command of it, and you have the potential for bringing your spiritual life under control.”
- Dr. Warren W. Wiersbe: “Is James making a mistake by connecting committing sins of the tongue with sins committed by “the whole body”? No, because words usually lead to deeds. During World War II we were accustomed to seeing posters that read LOOSE LIPS SINK SHIPS! But loose lips also wreck lives. A person makes an unguarded statement and suddenly finds himself involved in a fight. His tongue has forced the rest of his body to defend itself.”
- Dr. Daniel M. Doriani – “Even gifts of the tongues are dangerous. The persuasive tongue can convince ordinary people of almost anything. What self-control it takes to wield that tool – that weapon – to bless others and not to seek selfish gain.”
My mama (who was not a scholar or a pastor) used to say, “Don’t let your mouth make a bill your behind cannot pay.” Selah!
If you will not believe the scholars, pastors, or my mama that the words you say are impactful and reveal your spiritual maturity level, hear Jesus:
36 But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. 37 For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned” Matthew 12:36-37. NIV.
I want to glorify My Heavenly Father and my Savior in word and deed. I want to bless and uplift others with my words and not harm them in any way. My goal is to be more like the Christian James wrote about who is “[fully developed in character, without serious flaws], able to bridle his whole body and rein in his entire nature [taming his human faults and weaknesses]” (James 3:2b). I am not perfect (none of us are), but I intend to keep growing spiritually and be mindful of the words I speak. Help me, Holy Ghost!
Consider the truth of this poem from an Anonymous poet:
A careless word may kindle strife;
A cruel word may wreck a life.
A bitter word may hate instill;
A brutal word may smite and kill.
A gracious word may smooth the way;
A joyous word may light the day.
A timely word may lessen stress;
A loving word may heal and bless.
Question: What does James 3:2 mean to you? Join the conversation. Talk to me. Share your wisdom and insights with the other blog readers and subscribers.
Thank you.
Awesome word…
Thank you, Dr. Haire! This Word to us must be a daily effort and life practice. I always envision a cord connecting that tongue to the heart. The purer the heart, the less evil producing from that unruly member. Thank you for sharing this! I love your blog!
Hello Dr. Haire,
Thank you for this weeks blog.
What James 3:2 means to me is to live up to what I say concerning kingdoms truth by continue learning, living and obeying what Gods words says so that the Christ in me reflects His righteousness. Am I there yet, no, but each day with the help of the holy spirit I’ve’ learned that there’s room for more spiritual growth.
God Bless you!
James 3:2 remind me that we all have weaknesses that we can improve on. My goal is to continue developing my weaknesses to strengths.
Very timely word. Thank you!
Great article. Dr. I loved the part you have said that we’ve all said the wrong thing at one point in time or another. So true.
James:2 simply says we all, at one or more times, have sinned and have weaknesses. We might do a lot of good, but we fall short of being perfect.
A good reminder that when we want to point out others and their sins and shortcomings, let’s closely look at ourselves and aim for improvement.
Thank you!
Hi Dr. Haire. Awesome word. James 3:2 is telling me that since I am not yet perfect, I will at times say something that is not right for whatever reason. Therefore, I’d better make sure that I seek the word of God in truth before speaking. I should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to anger. Sometimes I may have to learn to be quiet.
May this prayer be in our hearts. God, let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight. Amen.
Amen! You put in words a prayer I need to post on my mirror and practice daily. Thanks to Dr. Haire for a much needed word for me.
Amen, Amen, Amen. A wonderful blog. Thank you. The words that are spoken and those that are not spoken says a lot. Speaking meaning words at the right time as well as knowing when not to say some words is important. With the help of the Holy Ghost it can be done. Help me Holy Ghost.
Wonderful word Dr. Haire. It reminds me to be quicker to think before I answer. Once the word(s) are out, you can’t take them back!
We know that we are instructed to be swift to hear and slow to speak. Your saying Help me Holy Ghost is our greatest help to bridle our tongue…and speak a Word in season. Lord, make us mindful…
A truly relevant, timeless message….God wants to see growth in His children….Thank you Lord for the reminder delivered through you, Dr. Haire!
Slow to speak, slow to speak. Keep reminding myself. Thanks for this teaching I need it working on it keeping it before me. Very helpful and well done.
I to want to glorify the father with my mouth,so iam him to help me to use the word i speak to people to Bless them
Awesome word
Thank you