James: Model of an Authentic Christian LifeSample

Scientists have studied some strange things over the years. For example, crows understand the concept of zero. Who knew? Sheep can recognize the faces of other sheep for up to two years. Crazy! And if you lean to the left, objects appear smaller. Now half of you are leaning to the left!

Scientists have also proven that sound affects plant growth. Happy words and soft music cause plants to grow faster and taller, while harsh words and loud music slow their growth.

If plants, which have neither ears nor emotions, are affected by words, how much more so are people?

Have you ever said something you regret? Maybe in the heat of an argument you called someone an ugly name. Maybe when challenged about the project you handed in, you lied. Maybe when life is stressful you tend to yell. Our instinct is often to allow our mouths to have minds of their own.

James tells us to go against that instinct and, instead, to control the words that come out of our mouths. What we say matters. Words can encourage or discourage. Proverbs 10:11 says, “The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.”

Earlier in this Bible reading plan, we read James’s instructions to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry. That instruction influences what we do in conflict, but it also applies to our everyday conversations. Would you consider yourself wise in this area?

Prayer: Dear God, I don’t always check my words before they come out of my mouth. Forgive me for being harsh and unkind with my words. Help me to control my tongue so that I can live changed. Amen