James 3
Verse 6: The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil
among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course
of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.
Lord, I am angry at what is happening in our country. I want
to speak out with anger and blame, and demand consequences.
Verses 9-10: With the tongue we praise our Lord and
Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s
likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and
sisters, this should not be.
Verses 14-16: But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish
ambition in your hearts, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such
“wisdom” does not come down from heaven but is earthly, unspiritual,
demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find
disorder and every evil practice.
I long for righteous justice, Father, but does this come
from my own selfish desires?
Verses 17-18: But the wisdom that comes from heaven is
first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy
and good fruit, impartial and sincere. Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a
harvest of righteousness.
Lord, tame my tongue. Help me to strive for your wisdom and peace. Help me to slow down my anger, make room for your grace, and wait for your justice.