what words are you choosing?

A few weeks ago, I started studying the book of James with some ladies (on Zoom, of course). When I started, I thought, “I have read James a few times… is this really the study I should be doing?” But of course, God’s words in the book of James are always relevant, especially as I contemplate the section on taming the tongue.

In this time of crisis, all over the world - how are people responding in regards to their tongues (or fingers as they type)?

Let’s take social media for example, what words are we choosing to say? Are we encouraging one another building each other up or tearing each other down, making sure our point of view is loud and clear?

We are called, as followers of Christ, to be careful how we live, not as unwise but wise… making the most of every opportunity to shine the light of Jesus. I know we live in a nation where we have the freedom of speech. But as a Christian, should we be saying everything we desire?

Years ago I remember a pastor saying, “Think before you speak.” He used an acronym to illustrate his point. If you T.H.I.N.K. before you speak and ask yourself the following questions, might we hold our tongues just a bit more?

• Is it true?

• Is it helpful?

• Is it inspiring?

• Is it necessary?

• Is it kind?

At this time in our history, I would encourage each of us to pause and reflect on these questions before we respond.

The tongue is said in James to be the “a fire, a world of unrighteousness” and that no human being can tame the tongue. This verse struck me… no human being can tame the tongue.

Well that feels defeating!

But maybe that is the point.

At this time in our history when we have more down time than ever before, what are you leaning into? Who are you leaning into? Because “Apart from Jesus, we can do nothing.”

I pray each of us will lean into Jesus more and more because apart from him, we cannot tame our tongues… or our fingers or our minds. Trust me. I have tried. And tried. And tried. So instead, let’s cling to Him and use our words to encourage and love and build others up.