Bridling Our Tongue
Introduction:
There is power in our words. The impact can be devastating when using
words in negative way. Words of affirmation are fuel for the soul. This lesson
will discuss the tremendous power of the tongue. In Js. 3, God makes us aware
of the need to guard our tongue. Bridling our tongue is an essential to living
a good life.
I.
Js. 3:1-6 – The Power of the Tongue.
A.
Small parts can
control big things.
1.
3:3 – place bits
in horses mouth
2.
3:4 – place
rudders on ships
3.
3:5 – the tongue
is inside our body.
B.
Yet, the tongue is
something that if uncontrolled, can do great damage.
1.
Not just long
orations/speeches…
2.
But in small
collections of words – often can be most devastating.
II.
Js. 3:7-8 – No one can tame the tongue.
A.
Man given dominion
over birds/animals/reptiles. (Gen.
1:27-28; Psa. 8:4-9).
1.
We have tamed them
all.
2.
Tongue is untamable.
B.
3:8b – James
says the tongue is a restless evil.
1.
It seeks to be unbound
and manage us.
C.
3:8c – it is
full of deadly poison.
1.
We should greatly fear
improper use of the tongue. Why? Pro. 18:21
2.
We must not let our
words kill good intentions, good will, initiative, hope, good morale, good
reputations, or spiritual mindedness.
III.
Js. 3:9-12 – We use our tongues inconsistently.
A.
If we believe that God
is going to be pleased with the honor we give Him with our lips, while we speak
vile, filthy, hateful words about & to others, we are deceived.
IV.
Can We Win Here?
A.
Never be able to tame,
but we can bridle our tongue.
1.
Be proactive.
a.
Identify occasions when you have trouble being silent.
b.
Identify occasions when you should speak up.
c.
Identify occasions when your speech may go in a negative
direction.
2.
Plan beforehand on how
to encounter each situation.
B.
3:11-12 – go to
the source
1.
Evaluate what you take
in. What are you putting inside your heart?
2.
Mt. 15:18-19; Phil.
4:8 – friends? TV? Music?
Conclusion:
A.
How will you turn your
speech in a positive direction and away from a destructive course?
B.
James 1:19