And the tongue is a fire ,a world of iniquity . The tongue is so set among our members that it defiles the whole body ,and sets on fire the course of nature ; and it is set on fire by hell. (James 3:6) While fire ,when used symbolically, can signify cleansing (Isa 4:4, Zech. 13:9),it more frequently refers to destruction (Josh 6:24; 11:9, 11; 1Sam. 30:3; Matt. 7:19), including the destructiveness of ill-advised words (Prov. 16:27, 26:21). Now only can a large fire start from a spark ,it can also ravage and destroy with amazing speed. In the same way ,words can destroy friendships, marriages,and reputations. Sin originated on earth with a seemingly innocent question( Gen.3:1).It began in heaven in a similar way. Lucifer began to insinuate doubts concerning the laws that governed heavenly beings.( EG. White,Patriarchs and Prophets, p.37). So, it is no exaggeration to say that the tongue is set on fire by hell( James 3:6). While it is true that words once spoken are gone forever and that we cannot fully undo what we have said ,we should do all we can to lessen the damage and correct what we can. Taking steps to make things right will also help us not to repeat the same mistake. Though no man can tame the tongue (James 3:8), we are admonished to keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies (Ps.34:13)Only the Spirit of God can help us keep our words in check (Eph. 4:29-32). SS.Lesson Study for today.
Posted on: Tue, 11 Nov 2014 19:11:45 +0000
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