Read: James 3:1-16
Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. (v. 4)
Since ancient times, ships were designed to have a helm. The helm holds the steering wheel, which directs the rudder, which guides the ship to its destination. We are the same way. Humans were also created with a rudder and that is the tongue.
In today’s reading, we find listed several functions of the tongue and the consequences for misusing it. Our tongue has extraordinary powers. In a passage from Proverbs, King Solomon writes: “Death and life are in the power of the tongue,” and “From the fruit of a man’s mouth his stomach is satisfied” (Prov. 18:20-21). Everything that comes out of our mouth will guide towards good or for bad—and the effects are not just for ourselves, but they spread to others as well as our words guide them (James 3:1).
When we are filled with the Word of God, our mouths will bear fruit that is good and full of life. Therefore, it is necessary to renew our minds with the Word in order to have our hearts full of life. Everything you have filled your heart with will spring out of your mouth. So, choose today to speak life over yourself, your circumstances, your family and everything else around you.
As you pray, ask God to help you in your weaknesses, and to open your spiritual eyes to understand the truths of his Word.
About the Author
Bertina Salliu
Bertina Salliu is a historian and a scholar with the Institute for Albanian and Protestant Studies in Tirana, Albania. She also assists in scientific matters of the Albanian historic thought. Among other things, Bertina has a passion for reading, learning exotic languages, communication and public relations.
These devotionals were first published in Fjalet e Shpreses, Words of Hope’s Albanian devotional. Learn more about Words of Hope Albania, and our work in training and equipping local Christian leaders to write and share the Word of God.
