Book of James
Chapter 3
“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” (3:8)
Taming the Tongue
James 3 provides an invaluable lesson on the power of the tongue and the significance of divine wisdom. It calls for introspection on how we use our words and challenges us to live a life that reflects true wisdom from above. It reaffirms that a peaceful, humble life, lived in sincere wisdom, yields righteousness. Our words and actions must align to reflect the divine wisdom that can only come from God.
True Wisdom and Understanding (James 3:13-18)
13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.14 But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth.15 This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish.16 For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work.17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy.18 And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace.
James then moves on to discuss true wisdom and understanding, challenging his readers to show their wisdom by their good life and deeds done in humility. He contrasts the earthly wisdom, which is unspiritual and demonic, with the wisdom from above, characterized by being pure, peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy, impartial, and sincere. He ends by stating that peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness.
James 3, a vital part of the New Testament, provides profound teachings about the power of the tongue and the importance of divine wisdom. In his unique style, James addresses Christian believers and specifically teachers, highlighting the immense responsibility they carry due to the influence of their words. He further delves into the difference between heavenly and earthly wisdom, emphasizing how the former leads to peace and righteousness.
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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