Daily Bible Reading — Sustained By God’s Word Of WisdomНамуна

  

September 18

Introduction

James exhorts his readers to watch what they say, and he uses various images to describe what the tongue is capable of. He then provides a description of two types of wisdom – worldly wisdom that is demonic and pure wisdom that comes from heaven above.

Today’s Scripture: James 3:10

Words of thanksgiving and cursing pour out from the same mouth. My friends, this should not happen! 

Today’s Reading 

James 3:1-18

Reflect

What is your reaction to the way in which James describes the tongue? Is the tongue hard to control? How do you react when someone gossips about another? What is the effect of words that are spoken in love? Here are two sayings that echo James’s teachings: “Gossip is so tasty – how we love to swallow it” (Proverbs 18:8) and “Kind words are like honey – sweet to the taste and good for your health” (Proverbs 16:24). Read also what Jesus says about what comes out of our mouths (Matthew 15:10-20 or Mark 7:14-23). How does James describe worldly wisdom and wisdom from above (verses 13-18)?

Pray

Lord God, guard my lips this day from uttering curses and anything that is displeasing to you. May I sing your praises and offer words of thanksgiving, and may I speak only words of love and encouragement to others. Teach me to seek after wisdom from above that is pure, peaceful and gentle. Amen.

Prayer Concern

Teachers

Tomorrow’s Reading

James 4:1-17: James issues several warnings about criticizing others and about boasting.