8-16-2016

Good Morning All!!          

       James 1: 26; “If anyone thinks he is religious and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his heart, this person's religion is worthless.”

    There is a story about a young man who went up to one of the elders of the community and began to speak to him.  “I desire to be a great and strong leader of the community someday, what should I eat to be strong and wise?”  The wise old elder looked at the young man, so earnest and hopeful.  He looked to the sky as he spoke.  “My young son, it is not what you put in your mouth that will make you a great leader; it is what comes out of your mouth that determines if you are a great leader.  A great leader will have three ropes tied to his tongue.  First, is it the truth?  Second, is it necessary? And third, is it helpful?  When you can keep these three ropes on your tongue, you will be a great leader.”

     Controlling the tongue, it is a most difficult thing to do.  In our verse, James makes this clear.  In a good portion of his letter he stresses the need to control the tongue because of the damage it can cause.  A cruel word, a thoughtless statement, a selfish barb can all lead to pain.  Yet James encourages us to look closer and see that these words that harm may be correct and accurate but where is the value.  This is what Luther was writing about in his explanation to the eighth commandment where he directs us to “put the best construction on everything.”  The story shared at the beginning is a simple way to remember what James is telling us.

     The first filter we should always use is the truth.  Is the statement we are making the truth?  If it is not or if we are not sure, that should end the process.  The only words we speak should be of truth.  The accuracy of what we say should never be in doubt.  If we are unsure, we should take Luther’s advice and put the event in the best light possible.  This is to encourage healing and restoration.

    The second filter is whether or not what we say is necessary.  We may have a truth to share but is it necessary to share it?  Does the statement we are about to make build up or tear down?  Our goal, as God’s children, is to build each other up.  If what we say does not build then perhaps it is not needed and is better left unsaid.

     The third filter is whether what we say is helpful.  Does this help the situation?  Does it bring clarity to the problem?  Does it help or does it hinder?  Does what I say make things better or worse?  This is the third filter and all three should apply.

    Our goal should be to build up each member of the body of Christ.  Our talk should be to encourage, embolden, comfort and to bring about reconciliation.  This is how God desires we use our tongue; we need to pray for his help in accomplishing it.

Gracious Father, help me to hold my tongue.  Guide me to speak in words that uplift, and encourage, that give comfort and hope.  Lead us to be your voice.  Lead us to proclaim your love.  In the precious name of Jesus we pray, amen.

God’s Peace,

Pastor Bret