These passages of scripture are in full view each morning as I begin my day as a reminder. Some days these words are duly noted and executed as I go about my day. Other days I fail miserably. Please allow me to share them with you.
“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. Can both freshwater and salt water flow from the same spring? Can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.” (James 3:9-12)
But if you harbor bitter envy and selfish ambition in your heart, do not boast about it or deny the truth. Such “wisdom” does not come from heaven, but it is earthly and spiritual and demonic. For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and every evil practice.” (James 3:14-16)
Even as I type these words, my heart is pierced because of my lost battles, even of late, in honoring these verses which corroborates my need to have them constantly before me. I do know beyond a certainty that God has given me strength and “heavenly wisdom” to hold my tongue with more success because of this daily reminder. However, there is much room for improvement as I surrender to speaking the words and following the guidance of the Holy Spirit who dwells within me. His words are much kinder, his motives much more true and pure.
Below is a link to one of my new favorite songs that, like the verses above, is a constant reminder of how my “words” can either lift people up in the Lord or bring them down. I leave you with these words from Psalm 19:14. “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in Your sight, O Lord, my rock and my Redeemer.” To God Be the Glory!