Taming the tongue

For the full context of this post read James 3:1 - 18.

Solomon wasn’t the only one who had advice on wisdom for us. James wrote the following:

17 But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere. 18 Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness (James 3:17-18, NIV).

It is interesting to note that immediately preceding James’s description of wisdom which comes from heaven, he cations believers about the power of their words. James states that the tongue is a deadly poison which can corrupt the whole body and set the course of life on fire. Taming the tongue is hard to do! Only the wise do it well!

It is easy to be considerate of others when we agree with and hold the same beliefs as them. It is harder to be considerate of others when their viewpoints or lifestyles are contrary to our own. It is easy to be impartial to everyone within our circle of like-minded friends. It is harder to be impartial towards those who are outside of our circle. We may not always agree with the perspectives of others. We may even know that they are wrong. It is not our place to judge. It is our place to be considerate, impartial, sincere, and full of mercy. When we exercise wisdom, we make peace with them regardless. This type of peacemaking wisdom produces a harvest of righteousness. When I cannot trust my tongue, I will extend mercy. In doing so, I will be an example of the impartial love of Christ to those who need it most.