Blessing vs. Cursing

"With it we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God. Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so." (James 3:9-10 NKJV)


When you curse human beings who have been made in God's likeness, you dishonor God, their Creator. Christians ought not to allow cursing (swearing, profanity, words that express great hatred or anger) come out of the same mouth that gives praises to God. We cannot pretend that our life is on the right track if we continue to praise and curse with the same tongue. The inconsistency of our tongue will discredit/hinder our testimony. Words matter; they reveal what's in our hearts. Though small, the tongue can cause great damage. Our words can be used either constructively or destructively. Sadly, there are so many ways we sin with our tongue; therefore, it's very important to constantly guard our tongue. We must bring our tongue under the control of the Holy Spirit and ask Him to make it an instrument of praise, worship, thanksgiving, and blessing. Choose to bless, heal, inspire, instruct, encourage, build others up with your words. You may have devotions everyday, lead a Bible study, go to church every week, but how do you speak to your family, coworkers, neighbors, and enemies? How do you react (exclaim) when people cut you off on the road?

Prayer: Abba Father, please forgive me for the sins I have committed with my tongue. Please fill my heart with Your Holy Spirit and may the fruit of the Spirit overflow into my words and actions. Please empower me to speak grace, wisdom, life, and blessings into the lives of others. May my tongue be used only for good and for Your glory! In Jesus' Name, I pray. Amen.