Consider The Source!

When people say things to us or about us that are not true, sometimes the best thing to do -- rather than overstressing about it -- is to consider the source and ignore it. Let it be their problem rather than ours. However, when it comes to WHAT WE SAY it is very important to consider the source.

James stated. . .
"(7) For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, (8) but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. (9) With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. (10) From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, THESE THINGS OUGHT NOT TO BE SO. (11) Does A SPRING pour forth from the same opening BOTH FRESH AND SALT WATER? (12) Can A FIG TREE, my brothers, BEAR OLIVES, or A GRAPEVINE PRODUCE FIGS? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water." ( James 3:7-12 ESV)

Therein lies our challenge; controlling the tongue. And it is a real challenge! As we consider James' illustrations from nature, both focused on the fact what came forth or was produced had to do with the source. From where the spring flows determines the kind of water that will be found. The kind of tree or vine getting its nourishment from the depth of its roots determines the kind of fruit that is produced. The best way for us to become more victorious in the challenge of controlling the tongue is to keep our focus on the source; THE HEART.

Jesus exhorted. . .
"(33) Either make the tree good and its fruit good, or make the tree bad and its fruit bad, for the tree is known by its fruit. (34) You brood of vipers! How can you speak good, when you are evil? For OUT OF THE ABUNDANCE OF THE HEART THE MOUTH SPEAKS." ( Matthew 12:33-34 ESV)

THE HEART! Is it fresh or polluted? What does the fruit of the lips reveal? When we consider what is natural with the rest of God's creation, let it be so also with us. Maintaining a PURE HEART and keeping the focus there will produce speech that is glorifying to God. Since Jesus warned that we will be judged by our words ( Matthew 12:36-37), we dare not ignore the source from which they flow. May God help us maintain THE HEART that produces that which is both refreshing and palatable.

Have a great day MINDING THE SPRING OF OUR SPEECH!
Carl

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