“For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue.” (James 3: 7-8a, ESV)
We’re going to continue studying James together, and the focus of chapter 3 is on the tongue. James paints a graphic picture of the tongue for us.
It’s small but powerful, like the bit in a horse’s mouth, or like the rudder of a ship.
It’s deadly – like a fire that spreads and destroys everything in its path, and like the deadliest of poisons.
It’s untamable. Man might be able to tame lions and whales and every other beast, but he can’t tame to tongue.
It’s a true picture of what is in our heart.
God has lots to say to us through this short chapter of James. Man might not be able to bring his tongue under control, but God can.
Let’s do this together. Pray for a honest, teachable heart, brace yourself, and study this convicting, challenging chapter with me.
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Chapter 1 – Faith, Endurance, and Action
Chapter 2- Demonstrate Love in Action to All People Equally
Fyi – There doesn’t appear to be an option to leave comments at the end of each lesson.
Oh dear! Thanks for letting us know, Julia! We’ve taken care of the problem!
I feel I have to finish all of James before I start on another book of the Bible.
I just sent you a message about posting my comment in FB or on here.
I saw my name as if I had already joined. When I feel really stuck I will post it on FB.
Everyone of us goes through trials. As I’m reading these question. “Why do you think James should begin his teaching on the tongue?” I can remember saying things to my granddaughter that did more harm then good. I regret having that conversation with her. Instead I should have just told her that I love her and am praying for her. I believe that we all go through these trials. I need to ask God help me to hold my tongue and pray and ask God to guide and direct our moments, that need to glorify him.
Need to work on the taming of my tongue greatly. It’s sad that the people most affected by my sinful tongue are my spouse and children; those closest to me! Women at church would say I am slow to anger… but they do not know my in-home struggles.
Thankful for James; enjoyed reading the first three chapters today. It was hard to title the first two chapters, haha, I made them really long. “God gives wisdom and joy in all situations” (ch 1) and “Love your neighbor practically/fully, not just with your words..” (ch 2) (not super proud of the second title haha).
Enjoyed the background on James that you linked; the Book of James was written possibly around the 50s or 60s, it contains similarity to OT wisdom writings like Proverbs. Chapter 1: Trials and Temptations, Testing of Faith. Listening and Doing. Chapter 2: Favoritism Forbidden. Chapter 3: Taming of the Tongue. Two kinds of wisdom.