Just One Spark

“So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things. How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire!” James 3:5

This past fall, California suffered its most devastating wildfires ever–more than 70 people were killed and over 10,000 homes and businesses destroyed. The financial toll numbers in the billions. Even now, investigators are trying to piece together what started the blaze. The most likely culprit was either a downed power line, a carelessly tossed cigarette or a spark from a mower blade striking a rock. Imagine–untold devastation from just one spark.

The apostle James likens that type of tragedy to the damage that can be done by the two ounce muscle in your mouth known as the tongue. And before you think otherwise, let me assure you–your tongue is capable of causing that kind of pain, just like mine is! James says no one is exempt (James 3:2). When we read what he has to say, it actually seems like James is exaggerating (read James 3:6). However, everyone of us has seen the harmful effects of carelessly spoken words, never mind deliberately cruel speech delivered in the heat of anger. It can happen so quickly. Our work or character is disparaged, someone we love is insulted, and before we know it, we hurl hurtful words at the offending person. Friends–here’s the thing about our words. Once they’ve been spoken, we have as much chance to retract them as we would to put a flock of doves back in a cage at a June wedding. Once they are out there, they can’t be taken back.

Be quick to hear and slow to speak (James 1:19). Harmful words damage people’s lives.

-Pastor Mike