Devotion for Monday, July 4, 2022

“And the tongue is a fire, the very world of iniquity; the tongue is set among our members as that which defiles the entire body, and sets on fire the course of our life, and is set on fire by hell” (James 3:6).

The idea here is not to make you feel so bad, nor be paranoid about talking, but realize that with the power of your ability to communicate, comes great responsibility.  If you let your mouth go free, it will destroy you.  Guard the gift of speech and be a steward of what is spoken.  One word can undo many: spoken in haste, or without regard, the good is replaced with evil, which may set on fire the course of your life.

Lord, help me to take seriously the gift of communication which You have given me.  I can speak and convey good words, but I can also speak badly and do damage.  Lead me, Lord, in the way of life such that I am on guard with what I say.  Help me to know that in You I have hope and there is a future.  In all I say, lead my tongue to speak those things which are pleasing to You and helpful to others.

Lord Jesus, lead me out of the mire of unhelpful words that are all around me that would take my heart away from You.  Guide me in Your goodness to see through and past the hurtful words that get spoken.  Let me not be one of those who speaks these words.  Through all things, lead me by Your grace to become intentional in my speech and uplifting through what I say.  May the truth and grace You give always be on my lips.  Amen.