Let’s Dance: Leading My Actions – Wednesday
James 1:26
Those who consider themselves religious and yet do not keep a tight rein on their tongues deceive themselves, and their religion is worthless. (NIV)
I have been known to struggle with anger. How is that possible, you ask? Simply put, I’m human. Growing up, I didn’t have great role models for managing emotions, and since crying was discouraged, I often lashed out instead. Over the years, I’ve learned to avoid getting angry in front of my loved ones. While others may think I handle frustration well, I usually take it out on my steering wheel. When my kids or wife have pushed me to my limit, a drive helps me release my frustration. However, if you cut me off in traffic when I’m angry, watch out! Those moments are far from my best, and my language and gestures may reflect my anger. It’s better than taking it out on my family, but still not ideal.
James 3:5-6 says, “Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue is also a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by Hell.” There is so much potential for evil in such a small body part. Our words have the potential to both kill and heal - to build up and to tear down.
Jon asked last week in his sermon, if the Holy Spirit squeezed you what would come out? Would it be hate and anger or would it be love and understanding? Maybe if you’re concerned, you should follow the advice of James 1:19 “... Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” When we listen first instead of reacting we have the opportunity to change how we feel. To be a person not filled with anger, but filled with love. Maybe I could finally give my steering wheel a break!
Wednesday’s Reflection
Reread today’s verses about the tongue and evaluate where you are with your speech. If there is an issue, take the advice found in James 1:19. Slow down and listen first before you react.