Daily Dose 11-19-13

James 3:3-9 (MSG) 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 body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.

Oh, the power of our words! The analogies James uses of a bit in the mouth of a horse and a ship’s rudder are perfect examples of the power of our tongue. Just like a bit has a bridle and a rudder has the throttle of engine power, we have the Holy Spirit to control our tongues. The extent to which we allow the Spirit control is up to us. We strengthen the strap of the bridle and give more fuel to the engine when we spend tie in the Word and in prayer. Choose your words today to encourage and uplift others!

Father, I know full well my tongue is the greatest source of my spiritual struggles. I’m not tempted to steal or murder or give in to other sins that would dishonor You. But we both know my words either bring a smile to Your face, or tears to Your eyes. Empower Your spirit to control my tongue and direct it to encourage others and bring a smile to Your face! I love You! Amen

Daily Dose 11-18-13

James 1:22-25 Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. Anyone who listens to the word but does not do what it says is like someone who looks at his face in a mirror and, after looking at himself, goes away and immediately forgets what he looks like. But whoever looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues in it—not forgetting what they have heard, but doing it—they will be blessed in what they do.

Nike has made a lot of money with its “Just do it” campaign. It was not an original idea; James said the same thing to Christians more than two-thousand years earlier and continues saying it to us today. You know scripture. You are guided by the Spirit. God wants more for you and will bless you for your obedience. So, what are you waiting for? Get off your spiritual couch and start working out! God’s calling to you to rise above the muck of life! Start living scriptures instead of quoting them!

Father, You know I know better than I live at times. I feel Your Word tugging at me to rise above and work out my faith. Prick my heart. Give me the inspiration, courage and strength to live what I believe! I love You! Amen