Read: James 1: 26

If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.

Reflect:

During World War II, the phrase “Loose Lips Sink Ships” was used to warn citizens to be careful with their the conversations. Loose lips might inadvertently reveal a detail of importance that might aid the enemy in a time of war. In other words, beware unguarded talk.

As followers of Christ, we are more likely to focus on what we consider more “serious” breaches in our behavior because how many of us are able to keep a tight rein on our tongues?  James will speak about this again later in his book, but here he clearly states that a person who doesn’t “bridle his tongue…deceives his heart, this person’s religion is worthless.” Worthless?

Last week I reminded one of my cousins that children provide the greatest joy in life and are also capable of causing the most enduring pain.  The same is true with the words we say.  Whoever said that “sticks and stones can break my bones, but words will never hurt me” only got it half right. Words can and do hurt.  Often.

Respond:

Think about the words you said yesterday.  Did you speak words of truth and encouragement? Did your words injure another?  Maybe a little of both?

Let’s not live life with regrets, but push forward by determining in our hearts to rein in our tongues as God reigns in our hearts.