Do not become teachers in large numbers, my brothers, since you know that we who are teachers will incur a stricter judgment. For we all stumble in many ways. If anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able to rein in the whole body as well. Now if we put the bits into the horses’ mouths so that they will obey us, we direct their whole body as well. – James 3:1-3
How have you been impacted by the words of others? Whether words of encouragement or hurtful words that leave great wounds, words have power. We often don’t have trouble with the act of speaking, but we struggle with being intentional with the words we use. In a fit of anger, we may say things we don’t mean or go off the handle in a way that surprises us. When our emotions are heightened, control of our words may be the first thing to go. This is why James emphasized how important it is to control our tongues, especially in areas of leadership.
When you ride a horse, the only thing you need to direct the horse is slightly tugging on the bridle. The way you pull will impact the animal’s movement to the right or to the left. James used this picture to show how our words should be reined in. Instead of saying whatever comes to mind, our words should be shaped by Christ. Instead of speaking in the heat of the moment, self-control should lead us to be intentional about the words we say. Ultimately, our words will only be put under control when we surrender control to Christ. Instead of speaking based on how we feel in the moment, we consider His direction with every word.
- Who is a leader that has shown you what it looks like to have self-control in speech? Who do you know that is reckless with words? How have these people impacted you?
- What does it look like to put your words under the direction of Christ? How is that different from how you live right now?
- Pray and ask God to direct your words. Ask Him to show you where you struggle to follow Him in the way you speak.
