The tongue has power to direct. In verses 3 and 4 we have the illustration of the bit and the
rudder. Our words can direct others into the right
or the wrong path –
look up Proverbs 18:21.
Beware of the idle word, the questionable story,
the half-truth, the deliberate lie. All these could
change the course of a life and lead it to destruction. On the other hand, the right word
may direct someone out of sin and into salvation.
How we need the Lord to control our tongue!

The tongue has power to destroy. The illustration in verses 5-8 emphasises the fact that
the tongue is a small member of the body, but it
can cause great destruction. What the tongue
says comes from the heart – look up Matthew
12:34-35. A tiny spark can set a whole forest on
fire, and the tongue is like a small flame – look up Proverbs 16:27. An evil tongue can also spread
poison. On the other hand, a spiritual tongue is
medicine – look up Proverbs 12:18; it will heal
and not hurt. The tongue has power to delight. In verses 9-12 we have the illustration of the fountain, or
spring; it is impossible for a spring to produce
both fresh and salt water at the same time. In the
same way, the tongue cannot speak blessing
and cursing (Proverbs 18:4). A tree cannot bear
two kinds of fruit (Proverbs 13:2; Proverbs 18:20-21).
1. THE WRONG USE OF THE TONGUE
Blaming God when tempted to do wrong (James 1:13-14). God never tempts us to sin;
temptation arises when a man is lured away by
his own lust. Speaking hypocritically (James 1:26). It is easy to do this, and what a terrible statement about
this very thing is found in Titus 1:16! Expressing discrimination between rich and poor fellow-believers (James 2:1-4). Discrimination between people’s colour,
background, race and status in life can be
thoroughly un-Christian. Speaking unsympathetically to those in need (James 2:15-16). With so much poverty in our
world, we need to search our hearts. Boasting and flattering, thus causing a destructive fire (James 3:5). Just one word can cause a family upset or division in a church; see
James 3:14. Grumbling against each other (James 4:12; 5:9) . Moffatt renders Romans 14:12-13: “Each of us
will have to answer for himself to God, so stop
criticising one another!” Swearing or blaspheming (James 5:12). Many non-Christians are careless with their words,
even taking the Lord’s name in vain. How careful
we must be as believers – 1 Peter 3:10. 2.
THE RIGHT USE OF THE TONGUE
Now look at the following references in James to
see how the Christian’s tongue should be used:- To praise God (James 3:9), which in one translation reads, “We use our tongue to praise
our Heavenly Father”. We should be doing this
every day – read through Psalms 148, 149 and
150! To pray to God: For wisdom (James 1:5-6).
For help for those in trouble (James 5:13-16).
For healing (James 5:14-15).
For large requests (James 5:17-18).
For backsliders to be restored (James
5:19-20). To sing to the Lord (James 5:13). Turn to Psalm 51:14 and make the same resolution. To witness for the Lord. This is not actually mentioned by James, but we must include it –
look up Psalm 107:2; Acts 1:8. We have seen that our tongues can be used in
many bad ways and in a number of good ways.
How can it be controlled? Only by the Holy Spirit.
Have you ever asked the Holy Spirit to take control
of your tongue? In Romans 6:13 we are exhorted
to offer the parts of our body to God “as instruments of righteousness” – our hands, eyes,
feet….ngue to the Lord for Him to control it? Do so now,
and as you conclude this study here is: A resolution to make – Psalm 17:3; Psalm 39:1.
A warning to take note of – Matthew 12:34-37.
A prayer to pray – Psalm 19:14; Psalm 141:3.

Wow.. I bless God for his world.. M glad It came at d right time.

Bible state that the power of life and death lies in the tongue