Unit 3: Faith and Wisdom in James
Taming the Tongue | Bible Background • JAMES 3:1–12
Printed Text • JAMES 3:1–12 | Devotional Reading • ISAIAH 50:4–11
AIM FOR CHANGE
By the end of the lesson, we will: EXPLAIN how James’ illustrations demonstrate the power of the tongue, REPENT of times when the use of our tongues has ignited a destructive fire, and PRACTICE controlling the tongue so it becomes a consistent source of refreshment to others.
IN FOCUS
Eugene wondered how Jerry made it through the day with everyone always angry at him over the things he said. Eugene and Jerry hung out all the time and were as tight as brothers. They had even been the best man for each other when they both got married. They lived in the same neighborhood, went to the same church, and each of them had three kids who went to the same schools and participated in Sunday school and youth activities.
However, while Eugene was well-liked and had lots of friends, that wasn’t the case with Jerry. Jerry always came off as mean. He had a way of phrasing every comment like an insult. Worse, Jerry always got defensive when people told him to tone it down, or he would claim, “It was a joke; you’re too sensitive!”
Eventually, people avoided talking to Jerry unless they absolutely had to. More and more, Eugene found himself making excuses for his friend—excuses his other friends didn’t want to accept. Eugene was frustrated because he knew Jerry to be a good and loyal friend, but everyone they knew was put off by him. Eugene prayed that Jerry would learn to understand the effect he was having on people and to see things from the view of those who got hurt by his comments.
How can we learn to step outside of ourselves and truly be as good to others the way God wants us to be, and not just as we think we are?