Does a spring send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water? Can a fig tree, my brothers and sisters, bear olives, or a vine bear figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh. – James 3:11-12
James used the analogies of a spring and tree to address speaking out of anger. Jesus also spoke about this in Luke 6:45: “The good person out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth what is good; and the evil person out of the evil treasure brings forth what is evil; for his mouth speaks from that which fills his heart.”
Our words reveal what is going on in our hearts, often revealing the bitterness we are holding onto, the resentment we have, or the disdain we have for someone else. If we are temples of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19), it is God’s love that should reign in our hearts instead of bitterness. Our voices are meant to be used for great and wonderful things that have a lasting impact instead of as vessels for the brokenness in our hearts.
- When is the last time you lashed out at someone? What were some ways bitterness and frustration were evident in your heart?
- How can you remember daily that you are a temple of the Holy Spirit? What makes that a challenge?
- Pray and ask God to cleanse your heart to reflect Him to those around you.
