Praise and cursing

With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be.                                                                           Jas. 3.9,10

Herein lies the sad diversity of the human tongue. This one instrument can be the source of praise or cursing. How unfortunate is this? And, I wonder, to what extent this is due to lack of personal control or foresight.

James says this disparity should not be so. The same organ ought not to sing out the sweetest praises and also be capable of expressing the foulest curses. The Christian ethos is one of love and grace. I see praise fitting into this, but there is no place for cursing. However, what if there is cause for cursing? Even so, I think a way could be found to handle the situation with love and grace.

James compares the praising of God with the cursing of men, who have been made in God’s image. I acknowledge that being created in God’s image does not eliminate human waywardness. There may come to pass ungodly behaviour from human beings. Yet, I do not necessarily curse these people. I am reminded of the number of times I read of Jesus looking on people with compassion. This is the example for me. If I am able to adopt a compassionate outlook, at all times, I am much less likely to resort to cursing and the misuse of my tongue. I have an obligation before God to honour Him with my words, as also with my thoughts and deeds.

Lord, Holy God,

I desire to use my tongue to Your praise and glory in all things. I pray for a sense of compassion, such as Jesus had, that will lead me in what I think, say and do.         Amen.