The Power of Our Words: A Call to Tame the Tongue
Pastor Tyler Renteria
Words hold incredible power. They can build up or tear down, heal or wound, bring life or destruction. The Bible repeatedly warns about the weight of our speech, urging believers to exercise wisdom in how they speak. James 3 presents a striking reflection on the tongue's influence, comparing it to a rudder steering a ship, a bit guiding a horse, and even a spark that can set an entire forest ablaze.
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Why Words Matter More Than We Think
James begins with a sobering statement: "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly." (James 3:1 NIV)
Words have authority, and those who teach carry the responsibility of guiding others in truth.
Whether truth or lies, words shape minds, influence hearts, and determine the direction of lives.
While perfection in speech is impossible, a growing faith in Christ should result in increasing control over our words.
The Tongue: A Small Part with Great Influence
James illustrates two key truths about the tongue: it directs our lives, and it has the power to destroy.
The Tongue Controls Our Direction
James uses two examples to highlight how the tongue steers our path—
A bit in a horse’s mouth determines its direction.
A ship’s rudder, though small, dictates the vessel’s course, regardless of powerful winds.
The implication is clear: our words steer the course of our lives and relationships.
Who or what is controlling your speech?
Are your words shaped by emotions, circumstances, or the people around you?
Does your speech change depending on the company you’re in?
A life surrendered to Christ should reflect more self-control over speech as spiritual maturity grows.
The Tongue Can Set Fire to Our Lives
James 3:5-6 warns, "Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. 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."
One careless word can cause irreversible damage.
Angry, reckless speech can destroy relationships, credibility, and peace.
The imagery of fire reminds us of how wildfires spread—one small ember can lead to massive destruction.
But fire, when controlled, can also be beneficial—bringing warmth, cooking food, and purifying metals.
The difference? Control.
A disciplined tongue can be used to bless, encourage, and edify, rather than tear down.
No One Can Tame the Tongue Alone
James seems to contradict himself: he calls for believers to control their speech but then states, "no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison." (James 3:8 NIV)
Is self-control even possible? Yes—but not by our strength alone.
The Role of the Holy Spirit
Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us that "the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
Self-control is a fruit of walking with the Holy Spirit.
While personal effort matters, true transformation happens when we allow God to change us from the inside out.
Human effort alone can suppress words temporarily, but only God can change the heart behind them.
Our Speech Reflects Our Hearts
James presents another powerful image: "Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be." (James 3:9-10 NIV)
Our words reveal what is stored in our hearts.
Jesus said in Matthew 12:34, "For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of."
If our hearts are filled with envy, anger, or pride, it will be evident in our speech.
If our hearts are filled with Christ, words of grace, kindness, and truth should flow from us.
What Are You Filling Your Heart With?
Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it."
Are you filling your heart with God’s Word and His truth?
Do your words reflect Christ’s love and grace?
Speech is often a symptom, not the cause—addressing the heart leads to lasting change in what we say.
Two Types of Wisdom
James shifts from speech to wisdom, contrasting earthly wisdom with heavenly wisdom.
Earthly Wisdom: Rooted in Selfish Ambition
James 3:14-16 warns, "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."
This wisdom prioritizes self over others.
It leads to division, disorder, and strife.
It is deceptive, often disguising itself as ambition or self-preservation.
Heavenly Wisdom: Rooted in Peace and Righteousness
James 3:17-18 describes true wisdom: "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."
Godly wisdom produces peace, not chaos.
It is humble and considers others before self.
It leads to lasting righteousness and godly living.
What Do We Do Now?
The book of James consistently calls believers to action, emphasizing that faith must be reflected in how we live.
Be mindful of your words—are they steering your life in a godly direction?
Surrender control of your speech to the Holy Spirit—invite Him to transform your heart.
Seek heavenly wisdom—reject selfish ambition and pursue peace.
Guard your heart—what you store inside will overflow into your words.