Advent Series #18 James 3 “Speak and Do”
Recently our church lost not one but three pastors, which has left a void along with the recent pandemic lockdowns. Like “Pastor” James, our church is seeking to keep the ties to the flock. This letter is chock full of wisdom to the dispersed regarding the tests they are sure to experience.
Satan would like nothing better than to destroy the flock through our tongues. Therefore, James encourages choosing wise words because the tongue is a deadly evil and needs the gift of self-control. There is a principle here; we can either draw listeners close to the Lord or drive them far from Him just by the words we choose as well as our countenance that is revealed behind the words. He reminds them not to forget the mirror example. You can see who you are in the mirror, but it is up to you to take heed to the image you see.
Knowing what to say and how to say it requires wisdom. If you need or want wisdom, all you need to do is ask God in full faith and He will provide the answers you are seeking. Twice he reminds his audience that true wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, accommodating, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial, and not hypocritical.
Today listen to how you are speaking as well as how you respond. Ask yourself if you are quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger. Remember, if we are merely listening but not applying, then our faith is futile and without merit.
If you are still in need of help try reading C.S.Lewis’ book: The Screwtape Letters in which he crafts a dialogue to show how Satan strategizes to fool and to disarm the believer.
C.S.Lewis wrote a book on how Satan works. Along with James we can learn his strategies so we can be wise
