Like fire, we can neither control nor reverse the damage that is done!

    When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go.  Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark.  The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. -James 3:3-6

As we grow from childhood, we are taught what is proper, what words are acceptable to say and whats not. Proper speech isn't only saying the right words at the right time but is also controlling what we say and the urge to say what we shouldn't say. Gossiping, putting someone down, bragging, manipulating others, false teaching, exaggerating, complaining, flattering, and lying are just a few of the things we should not say. Some of which we don't even realize is wrong. Exaggerating is such a part of our every day lives. " I ran a million miles just to catch the bus." When in reality I only ran maybe a half a mile.

An uncontrolled tongue can do horrible damage. It will divide people and set them apart or against each other. It has broken up families, friendships, churches and has even started wars. Hateful and mean words are damaging and hurt deeply. Once the damage is done it cannot ever be undone, you can never take back what you said.We are often careless with what we say thinking that we can always apologize but the wounds remain. A few small words can destroy a relationship that took years to build. A few angry minutes of time can waist many wonderful years.
Our words are like fire, we can neither control nor reverse the damage that is done. (some information taken from niv study notes)

Father, I pray that you will teach us to bridle our tongues, teach us to speak only with uplifting and encouraging words. Remind us to think before we speak and that our words are like fire causing damage where ever it goes. Show us how to use our tongues in a manner that pleases you. In Jesus name amen.
With God's Love,
Christian