“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!” – James 3:5
The words that fly out of our months have great and terrible power! With them we can praise or destroy. We can build up or tear down. We desperately want to release our tongues to do any old thing, but for Christians, that simply isn’t an option.
We’re made new in Christ and that requires new habits, patterns, and words for our tongues. Scripture forbids us letting our tongues go wild, because God knows just how vile and wicked our tongues can truly become. Followers of Jesus should not be using their tongues to gossip, spread lies about other believers, or profane the name of Jesus.
With a few careless (or intentional) words of hurt and offense, we can spark a massive internal fire within our relationships, families, and churches. That fire can quickly grow out of control and consume the many resources of God – particularly His people! Lies, gossip, and harsh words can literally suck the life out of many who love the Lord. So, be careful what you say and how you say it. Don’t let your tongue be caught by God spreading wildfire!