The book of James is one of those that present us some challenging instruction. There are passages that most people would rather not read...ever. And yet, James gives us clear instruction with blatant examples of how we should behave. I have a deep appreciation for this!
Over the 4th of July this year I was pleased to see so many people laughing and getting along so well. And yet, there were pockets of people who were huddled down and speaking less than gracious with each other, notably they were gossiping. As I walked through a crowd, I overheard one child bullying another child. While both instances are nothing out of the ordinary in any public setting, it did make my heart sad.
Our words matter and the way in which we speak can either build up or tear down. I rather enjoyed the laughter and positive words I heard during the parade and in the market. The feeling of festivity was contagious and I walked home feeling good about our community. But I also found that I carried the negative exchanges as well. Funny I thought, how it stuck with me and it reminded me of James teaching in chapter 3. James talks about how we steer horses with just a small bit or a boat is turned by a small rudder. What a large difference a small thing can make! But he goes on to say something about a small part of our body that can also make a big difference in verse 5,
“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.”
I resolved to make it a point to be more positive in the ways I express myself. I wanted to share this both to be accountable and to encourage all of us to focus on speaking positively and honestly, in ways that build up and not tear down, ways that bless and not degrade. Our town is a wonderful place. How much better will it be when we all seek to bless everyone we encounter!
