Watching Our Language

Scripture – James 3:1-5: ¹Not many of you should presume to be teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. ²We all stumble in many ways. If anyone is never at fault in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to keep his whole body in check. ³When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. ⁴Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. ⁵Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.

Observation – (Write down what you see in the scripture.) Words have great power. The language we choose to use affects the over-all meaning of what we intend to communicate. For example, we’ve accepted a phrase that people can use when they’ve done something wrong, but they don’t really want to admit it. They’ll say something like, “I want to apologize” for doing whatever they did. I’ve read very eloquent statements that start out like that. Yet in all that’s said no apology is issued. There’s only the desire that’s acknowledged. It’s far easier to say, “I want to apologize” than it is to say, “I’m sorry.”

Application – (Write how you will be different today because of what you have just read.) I will watch my language today. I will speak clearly and truthfully.

Prayer – (Write out a brief prayer.) Lord, you have given us many clear words in our language. Teach me to use them to speak honestly. Give me the courage to make myself vulnerable by speaking the truth. Remind me of the vulnerability you accepted willingly for me. Guide my tongue this day.

An Invitation – If you’re interested in a face to face discussion about what we’ve been discovering in the Mini-Journal, a small group will be meeting tomorrow morning, 9:45 – 10:30am, at the Southgate Fun and Fitness Center (on Northline near I-75). Look for them around one of the tables in the Café area.