April 8, James 1:26

While on earth, Jesus was careful about his speech. He controlled his tongue, not speaking maliciously to hurt people’s feelings. He was wise and his sharp arguments stumped people or rendered them speechless. We, like Jesus, must be in control of what and how we say things. We must not let our tongue be our master.

There is a legend of a king sending out two men whom he thought were fools, to search for the world’s best and worst thing. What do you think is the best and worst thing on the planet earth? They both returned from their quest and each brought before the king a small box. Opening the first box, the king found a tongue inside. And in the next box was also a tongue. The king was amazed by their find and realised that the two fools were after all very wise.

Yes, the tongue is indeed the best and worst thing on earth. Have someone’s words upset you? Words can make us cry and make us angry. This explains why the tongue is a bad thing. On the other hand, how many times have you laughed at what another person has said? Words can make us happy. So, the tongue can also be a good thing.

The apostle Paul instructed us to season our speech with salt. Salt preserves what’s good and adds flavour to food. When your speech is ‘salted’, your words can have a positive influence on others – you can comfort and encourage people when they are sad or troubled.

You have a choice as to what words are to come out of your mouth.
As a Christian, what is your choice? Answer: __________________

Put in the correct order these words from Matthew 12:36:

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Thought: Can you remember saying something hurtful to anyone?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to control my tongue so that my speech will edify others. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.