James 3

Taming the Tongue

Have you ever been deeply hurt by something someone said to or about you? Who do you think was hurt more—you or the person who said it? A basic teaching of James’ epistle is the need to control the tongue (see James 1:19, 26; 3:10). As you read James 3, try to determine why what we say can keep us from perfection.

Understanding the Scriptures

James 3

Helm (v. 4)Rudder

Listeth (v. 4)Desires, wants to go

Kindleth (v. 5)Burns

Defileth the whole body (v. 6)Destroys or makes unclean

Similitude (v. 9)Likeness

Endued with knowledge (v. 13)Intelligent or experienced

Conversation (v. 13)Conduct

Sensual (v. 15)Lustful

horse with bit

boat with rudder

Rudder

A small bit, placed properly in its mouth, can guide a powerful horse. Similarly, a small rudder can direct or steer a very large ship.

Studying the Scriptures

Do the following activity as you study James 3.

1. Tame Your Tongue

   What we say is important. It is a window to our hearts. Kind and uplifting words come from pure thoughts and good feelings; evil and hurtful words come from evil thoughts and bad feelings. Read James 3:1–13 and list at least three phrases that reflect different ideas about controlling what we say.