James 3:2‏

2. "For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. And if anyone does not offend in speech [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, able to control his whole body and to curb his entire nature."

Referring to the previous verse, we are reminded that we should not discriminate between those who teach and those who don't. We all have tongues, whether we teach or not, and so we all have a great responsibility for this small, but powerful organ. The same tongue can be used to bless others or to curse them. There is great potential either way. The word of God and our words are powerful no matter who we are. When we use our tongues and speak only in a way that flows out of trusting and loving God, we have a great effect upon the world, even and especially in times of testing. What we say is the simplest and yet the most powerful way to live... lives in line with God's own Word. According to James, this is the place to begin our lives of following Jesus, for as His disciples, we will have a huge impact on the rest of our lives--and those of others as well! We'll look more into the power of the tongue, as we continue.

Let's pick up with James verse 3:3 next time.

I love you.