“For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” (James 3:2)
James 3:2 reminds us that we all stumble in many ways, especially with our words. However, those who can control their speech are considered mature and able to direct their entire lives in the right direction.
Today, I want to share with you the significance of your mouth as a powerful control mechanism.
Picture 1: Controlling the Horse with a Bit
God paints a vivid picture for us in James 3:3: “Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.” Just as a small bit in a horse’s mouth can control its entire body, your words have the potential to direct the course of your life.
Picture 2: Steering the Ship with a Helm
Similarly, James 3:4 says, “Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth.” Despite the immense size of a ship, it can be steered in any direction by a small helm. Likewise, your words can navigate you through life’s challenges and storms.
Understanding the Control and Triggering Mechanisms
In any mobile entity, there are two essential mechanisms: a control mechanism and a triggering mechanism. Mark 11:23 provides us with the triggering mechanism for divine power: “For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.” Your mouth serves as the control mechanism for activating this triggering mechanism.
You possess the power to utilise your control mechanism positively or negatively. You can choose to silence the negative winds around you or declare God’s promises over your situation. Remember, a negative diagnosis does not determine your destiny. Instead, make a firm decision to steer the ship of your life and destiny in the right direction. Your words have the ability to shape your future.
YOUR DESTINY IS IN YOUR MOUTH!
Picture 3: The Tongue’s Great Influence
James 3:5 emphasizes the significant impact of our words: “Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!” Just as a small spark can ignite a massive forest fire, the words you speak can accomplish great and mighty things or cause destruction. Therefore, it is crucial to be mindful of how you use your words.
Choose Life-Bringing Words
Remember, your tongue has the power to burn or build. As Christians, we must master the vocabulary of life and refrain from destruction. Your words should only consume the wrong things in your life, not the right ones.
May your mouth be under the guidance of your born-again spirit rather than being controlled by your flesh or emotions.
Let us continuously train our mouths to speak life, for our words have a lasting impact.
In conclusion, it is vital to recognise the immense power of your words. Just as a horse is controlled by a bit and a ship is steered by a helm, your mouth serves as the control mechanism for your life. You can navigate through challenges and witness divine intervention by aligning your words with God’s promises.
Let your spirit lead your mouth, for your words have the ability to transform situations and impact lives.
Till next time, go and win with Jesus.
God’s Servant,
Rev. Olusola A. Areogun.