It does not matter how spiritual we claim to be, we may attend church, sing hymns, carry out good deeds and do all the other things that are expected of ‘religious’ people. In themselves, all these things are good. However, James says if you want to impress God, the first thing He will say is, "Show me your tongue." He is going to judge from your tongue whether your claim is valid and acceptable.
“When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal.” James 3:3 – [NIV]
James is bringing out the unique significance and influence of the tongue for the whole course of our lives.
The horse, in the Bible, is usually a picture of physical strength. James is saying that no matter how strong a horse is, if you can get control of its mouth with the bit, you can control the whole animal. The horse's strength is brought into subjection through the control of its mouth. The same is true with us, that which controls our mouths controls the whole course of our lives and that of others.
“Do not be like a senseless horse or mule that needs a bit and bridle to keep it under control." Psalm 32: 9 [NLT]
“Neigh! Not I” we may say, however, in our natural state we are like wild horses – we cannot bridle ourselves, but God will put a special bit into our mouths to set us in the right direction. Our mouths are controlled by divine direction. If we allow God to bridle our tongues, by the power of his Spirit working on our heart, then thankfully there will be a monitor for our mouths.
I remember being overheard once on a baby monitor when I was speaking carelessly and I was mortified. God offends the mind to reveal the heart. Would your speech be different to your friends, your spouse, your children, in the workplace etc. if you knew you were being overheard….you are, and careless talk cost costs lives.
Dawn Milward
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