Scripture: James 3:1-2
My brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers, because we know that we teachers will be judged more strictly. We all make mistakes often, but those who don’t make mistakes with their words have reached full maturity. Like a bridled horse, they can control themselves entirely.
Thought for the Day: If no one else will say it, I will. I have clearly NOT reached full maturity. Words like fully and entirely make me nervous as they leave no room for the occasional hiccup or gaffe. James spends a number of verses dealing with this idea, including the idea of taming the tongue. He writes, “No one can tame the tongue, though. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.” After speaking of those who don’t make mistakes, he seems to suggest that no one is perfect when it comes to controlling the tongue. Could it be that I’m confused? That’s a real possibility. Or could it be that James wants to set a high ideal and not give people easy excuses for why they are not stretching toward the ways of Jesus? There are two perspectives: I can try in spite of my shortcomings -or- I can excuse myself from trying because of my shortcomings. James doesn’t want the second option to even be a real option. Followers of Jesus don’t look for excuses.
Prayer: Continue to push me in my discipleship. O Lord, challenge my excuses and quick cop outs that have kept me from following you more closely. Amen.
