Fire

So it is with the tongue: small as it is, it can boast about great things. Just think how large a forest can be set on fire by a  tiny flame! And the tongue is like a fire. It is a world of wrong, occupying its place in our bodies and spreading evil through our whole being. It sets on fire the entire course of our existence with the fire that comes to it from hell itself. (verses 5, 6)

Read James 3:1-12

In Australia we are very used to seeing the human tragedy that can take place as the result of a bushfire. Those of us who live near to scrub are especially careful every time summer comes around, because we know that one discarded cigarette, one unattended barbecue or one fallen powerline can set the bush ablaze.

St James likens our tongue to a flame. Just as in the heat of summer we must be careful with fire, so in our dealings with people we must be careful with what we say. It may take only one cruel or thoughtless word to destroy a friendship, weaken faith or cause someone to stumble in sin.

But listen: God speaks to you, and the words he speaks to you are of his forgiveness and peace in Christ. Listen to him speaking to you, and he will teach you his language of love.

God, open my heart and ears to listen to you speak to me, so that I can speak to others with your love. Amen.

By Fraser Pearce, in “God’s Promises for each day” (LCA, Openbook Publishers (1999)

Visit the Daily Devotion archives page.