The Way - Day 041 (James 3)

Pastor Tom's Journal on Today's Reading:
James 3
The way a person talks reveals the condition of their heart.

• An individual who slanders the character of others reveals a heart
  of jealousy and pride.
• Someone who regularly gossips, and spreads rumors manifests a
  heart of bitterness and anger.
• The man or woman who speaks with perverted words proves that
  their heart is consumed with lust and immorality.
• A cursing mouth exposes a person's lack of control and hatred for
  wholesome speech.

The words which come from the mouth are vivid reminders of the true condition of the heart. James dedicates a few verses to address the way a person speaks and then uses biblical principles to guide followers of Christ into proper speech.

First of all, James admits the complexity of controlling one's speech. "For we all stumble in many things. If anyone does not stumble in word, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle the whole body" (3:2). Does this mean that we should just say whatever we want? Absolutely not. Although it is sometimes hard to control the mouth, there should be a deep desire in the heart of everyone who believes to speak words which reflect good.

Next, James reminds his readers of the power of the tongue. He refers to the tongue as a small part of our body, but one which "boasts great things" and "is a fire...and sets on fire the course of nature" (3:5-6). He goes on to call the tongue "an unruly evil, full of deadly poison" (3:8). Words can quickly destroy a person or destroy their joy. It is amazing that "...we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude [likeness] of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing" (3:9-10). James declares that "these things ought not to be so" (3:10). He illustrates the outlandish nature of speaking both good and evil out of the same mouth by referencing a fountain and a tree.

"Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening? Can a fig tree...bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Thus no spring yields both salt water and fresh" (3:11-12).
How can someone worship God, but also speak negatively about someone else? How can a follower of Christ worship God with their singing, but then curse with their lips? These things should not be happening. How is your speech?

James moves from the matter of speech (3:1-12) to a discussion of wisdom. Wisdom is the application of knowledge and is practical in nature because it affects conduct and lifestyle choices. James goes a little deeper into wisdom by distinguishing between the wisdom of man and the wisdom of God. Man's wisdom is based on limited and experiential knowledge. God's wisdom is based on truth.

James begins his writing about wisdom with a question, "Who is wise and understanding among you?" (3:13). He quickly answers his own question by saying "...prove it by living an honorable life, doing good works with the humility that comes from wisdom (3:14, NLT)." True wisdom is demonstrated in actions. James also writes -

"...if you have bitter envy and self-seeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic" (3:14-15).
Those who choose to use their knowledge and wisdom for self- promotion and notoriety are really not wise at all.
17

So, what does wisdom from God look like?

"But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. " (3:17, NLT).

There are many in our world who herald themselves as wise, yet they are only interested in increasing their notoriety. God desires His followers to stay away from self-absorbed pursuits, but to use wisdom so that they can live well in the presence of others. True wisdom not only affects us, but also those around us. Having the wisdom of God should cause others to look to God, who gives life. Jesus said, "let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven."

Dear God, may the knowledge I receive from You be turned into wise living. Help others to see the way I live so that they may also become worshippers of You.