Conduct Check-In
Christian conduct calls for a life shaped by humility, self-control, and mutual respect. Followers are encouraged to use wisdom in their words, understanding the profound impact speech can have on the community and themselves. True wisdom is displayed in actions marked by purity, gentleness, mercy, and a sincere willingness to serve others without selfish ambition. Within the diversity of our community, each person’s contribution is honored as indispensable, fostering a unity, compassion, and harmony that uplifts the entire body.
A Lesson from James
James 3:1–10 (NLT)
“Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. 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. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches.
But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right!”
A Moment for Self-Reflection
- How much in control of your mouth are you?
- Are you quick to respond with words of anger?
- Do you claim to love God but struggle with loving fellow Christians?
- Have you found yourself praising God yet cursing someone with the same mouth?
A Prayer for Our Speech
Lord, help your son/daughter with self-control of the mouth, giving them the will to surrender to your character of love, righteousness, and holiness. Lord, remind them of your law of love, to love You with all their heart, mind, and soul, and likewise love their brethren as such. Lord, remove defaming words from their mouths and fill them with words of exhortation. This we pray in Jesus Name, Amen!
I needed this it is my confession and prayer that I am able to surrender. When it comes to controlling my tongue, thank you!