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James: Growing Up The Tongue: A Terrific or Terrible Tool (James 3:1-12) May 31, 2015 Please turn to James 3:1 Introduction The tongue is one of the most powerful tools on earth. James gives six real-life examples to help us understand the power of the tongue. 1. The Power to Direct: The Bit and the Rudder (James 3:1-4) \u2022Good teachers control their tongues. \u2022He who controls his tongue is a perfect man. \u201cPerfect\u201d means mature, brought to completion; fully accomplished, fully developed. \u2022The control of tongue represents a controlled life. 2. The Power to Destroy: The Fire and the Animal (James 3:5-8) \u2022Note that James says, the tongue \u201csets the whole course of one\u2019s life on fire\u201d. \u2022And, why do words have this power? Jesus said, "Out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks." Whatever fills our heart inevitably comes out. \u2022Proverbs 18:21 says, \u201cThe tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.\u201d 3. The Power to Delight: The Spring & the Tree (James 3:9-12) \u2022We have a tendency to \u201cspeak out of both sides of our mouth\u201d. But, this should not be. \u2022Practical advice on controlling the tongue. T.H.I.N.K. before you speak. T - Is it true? H - Is it helpful? I - Is it inspiring? N - Is it necessary? K - Is it kind? Our tongues should be used as instruments of blessing \u2013 giving life to those around us and positively setting the course for our own lives. What is God\u2019s Spirit speaking into your life today? How must you respond?