Speak Life

Tuesday, November 21, ‎2023

Good morning, Lord

Verse of the Day:   1 Corinthians 1:4-5

I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given to you by Christ Jesus, that you were enriched in everything by Him in all utterance and all knowledge,

 Memory verse: Philippians 4:8 ►Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.

Today's reading: EZEKIEL 16-17 JAMES 3

Speak Life

The third chapter of James from the Holy Bible speaks, basically of two things: our tongues and our peace. It speaks of controlling the tongue because of the danger. What danger?

The tongue, James says, starts fires with fire that comes from hell, James 3:6.

There you have it. Fire from hell. Dragons without scales, wings, and tales-wickedness that can burn up any peace-if we don't realize it.

That is when James begins to write on God's peace in our lives. He asks the question: "Are any of you wise?"James 3:13

Are any wise? Really? Yes, really. "Do any of us have any sense"? Do we have sense enough to try to understand how to live right in humility? Because-- this is how God wants it.

Selfishness, bitter jealousy, bragging-any of these sound familiar? Well, how about just a little selfishness-just a little bit of jealousy?

Bragging is a lie that hides the truth-that is what the Bible says right there in James 3:14. We go through some nasty elections full of bragging and tongue wagging. How much good can come from all that money wasted?

We get it in our minds that we support someone or something because we think we are right and turn our tongues loose and burn peace down to the ground.

 It is too late to take back what we have said. Our words live forever.

But, we can change. James 3:17 But the wisdom that comes from God is like this: First, it is pure. It is also peaceful, gentle, and easy to please. This wisdom is always ready to help people who have trouble and to do good for others. This wisdom is always fair and honest. 18 People who work for peace in a peaceful way get the blessings that come from right living.

Work for peace. Seek the kingdom and work for peace. Controlling your tongue is basically easy-the tongue cannot work if the mouth is shut.

James 3:2 We all make many mistakes. A person who never said anything wrong would be perfect.

So, if it is not fair, honest, and gentle, do not open your mouth. If you are not certain of truth, mouth shut...

Right living starts when we follow the Lord into it-the world does not lead in that direction.

 18 People who work for peace in a peaceful way get the blessings that come from right living.

If we obey God, we live right and are blessed with the grace to face anything.

If we sin, which we all will, we must confess it and get back to following God.

Proverbs 18:

 21 The tongue has the power of life and death...

Speak life...

...because He loves us...

Father in Heaven,

Forgive me my pride and the freedom I give my tongue. I want Your wisdom and peace. Use me.

Forgiving and merciful God,

In the name of Christ Jesus,

Amen