2Day's Word - Speaking With Good Intentions

James 3:2

Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way.

Life Lesson

Today’s word (Word Of Reflection Daily) begins just after James talks about God’s higher expectation for those who teach in the church. Verse 1 says, “…not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly.” Wherein he then talks about how small, yet how powerful, our tongue is or can be.

In meditating over today’s passage the thought which comes to mind and speaks to my heart is useful guidelines to controlling the tongue. To intentionally think before speaking. Why? Because what we say or not say is or can both be important. Specifically, it is saying the right things, saying things at the right time or not saying things we shouldn’t. My seventh grade teacher said it many decades ago in a manner I remember still. To put brain in gear before mouth in action. In other words, is what I am about to say motivated by love, it is kind, does it really matter, is it necessary, is it needed, is it helpful (not hurtful) and/or is it true.

Hence, my take away today is knowing that since according to Verse 8 “ but no one can tame the tongue…”, speaking with good intentions can help and be helpful. Moreover, my take away today is to most importantly not rely solely on self. Rather, to rely on the Holy Spirit’s strength to help monitor and control what I say or shouldn’t say. To help me love where/when there is hate. To help me heal where/when there is hurt. Why? To respond in a manner which pleases Him and is according to His word, will and ways.

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