“For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” – James 3:2
How often does your mouth lead the way into trouble? Hopefully never, but for most believers, it’s far too common. We don’t intend to do wrong. We get some of our worst sins “under control”. But our mouth still runs. We say things we shouldn’t. Saying these things gets us more upset, so we say even more that we shouldn’t. One sinful word leads to hundreds or thousands more. Our words cause our thoughts to become darker and darker – angry, contemptuous, defiant, discouraged… Our bodies often follow the lead of our mouths. Suddenly, the sins we thought were “under control” are back in the driver’s seat!
There’s a popular myth in our culture that “venting” whatever we’re stewing about is good or healthy. That we must verbally unload our frustrations and anger on other people. That it’s good to vomit out vile words about people and situations. You may have fallen for that myth. But it IS a myth. Sinful words are always sinful and never justified. Even secular psychologists have come to agree that venting only makes you feel worse. That it causes your thoughts to spiral downward rather than clearing them up. It’s exactly what James describes – our words shape and guide our minds and bodies. If you can’t control your words, you won’t control your thoughts and actions.
As you follow Jesus and permit the Holy Spirit to control and transform your life, pray especially for the transformation of your words. Control your tongue and pray for God to give you the supernatural spiritual fruit of self-control. Watch what you say. Boastful words are never OK. Hurtful words are never OK. Gossip is never OK. Divisive words are never OK. Fits of rage are never OK. What comes out of your mouth must glorify God just as much as your actions do. #FollowJesus