The old proverb “Sticks and stones might break my bones but words will never hurt me” is challenged by James. Words do matter. Our speech has consequences.
A look at the text (Read James 3:3-8)
James illustrates the power of the tongue by comparing it first with the bit of a bridle. It’s placed into a horses mouth, to control it. As the bridle is pulled, the horse, responding to the pressure on its mouth moves its head and changes direction (3:3). Similarly, a boat can be in the fiercest of storms, driven by a powerful wind. Yet despite the size of the ship, it’s direction can also be altered by the smallest of parts, the rudder at the stern (3:4).
In a third illustration, James compares the tongue to a spark that can set off a great fire. The tongue, although small, makes great claims or boasts about itself. Here James personifies the body parts in a similar way to Paul in 1 Corinthians 12 (3:5). Continuing with the image of fire, James describes the destructive power of the tongue. Note the tongue as something that can cause fire, in other words burning like damage to our selves and other and also as something that itself is set on fire “by hell” or influenced by Sin and Satan (3:6).[1]
James laments the destructive power of the tongue. We have managed to tame all kinds of animals but we cannot exercise control over our own mouths. Our words too often end up like poison (3:7-8).
Digging Deeper
How does the tongue do this. Well, James’ primary point by comparing the tongue, or speech, to rudders and bits is not on speech as guiding/directing us but rather showing the amount of power that something proportionally small can have. Our words can build up or tear down, encourage or discourage, guide or deceive.
However, there are ways in which our speech does direct and influence. First, our self talk, what we say to ourselves about ourselves, others and God affects our emotions and behaviour. Secondly, our speech is often what first and most of all affects how others perceive and respond to us which in turn affects our behaviour. Thirdly, linked to verses 1-2, the tongue, especially when it is the teacher speaking shapes the direction of the whole church.
A look at ourselves
Psalm 19:14 says
“May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.”
These are good words to pray for ourselves and each other.
[1] The text here talks about the tongue as “being appointed” or “appointing itself” for evil. The former (passive) would suggest that God makes us that way but the latter, middle voice or reflexive meaning personifies the tongue “as the embodiment of our sinful nature.” C.f. Blomberg & Kamell, James, 158.
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