18—Forty Days with James: The Untamable

<p>For additional notes and resources check out Douglas’ <a href="https://www.douglasjacoby.com/18-forty-days-with-james-the-untamable/" target="_blank"><strong>website.</strong></a></p><p>Reminders:</p><ul><li>All of chapter 3 addresses the tongue, and has special relevance for and application to church leaders.</li><li>The influence of the tongue may be enormous, despite its minuscule size (like a rudder, bit, or spark). The body of Christ can be significantly influenced—for better or worse—through the words of a single person.</li><li>James wants to ensure that his readers / audience appreciate the seriousness of the point, so he offers even more illustrations (two in vs. 7-8, and two more in vs. 9-12).</li><li>Keep in mind that James is speaking into an already tense situation, both economically and politically.</li></ul><p><strong>James 3:7-8</strong></p><ul><li>Taming animals is a cinch compared to taming the tongue.</li><li>"Restless"—There's no end to the harm we can cause with our tongues, if we throw discretion to the winds and ignore what God’s Word says.</li><li>The impact of our words can be poisonous.</li><li>Selected proverbs on the tongue (NRSV): 6:16-19; 10:19-20; 12:18; 15:1-2; 18:21; 21:23; 25:15; 26:28; 28:23; 31:26.</li></ul><p><strong>Questions for self:</strong></p><ul><li>In a conversation, do I usually dominate?</li><li>Do others every tell me I talk too much?</li><li>Am I typically the loudest voice in the room?</li><li>Do I always have to have the last word?</li><li>Do I make unfavorable comments about others (even if they’re true)?</li><li>Do I ever use profanity?</li><li>Do I ever use <a href="https://www.douglasjacoby.com/q-a-0050-unwholesome-talk/">coarse language</a>?</li><li>When others talk, do they feel that I am listening—or distracted? What do my children say? My spouse?</li><li>Do I break confidences?</li><li>Am I a flatterer?</li><li>Am I tempted to answer tough questions dishonestly, or do I speak frankly and truthfully?</li><li>Do I make promises that I fail to keep—or nev