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3 Indeed, we put bits in horses’ mouths that they may obey us, and we turn their whole body. 4 Look also at ships: although they are so large and are driven by fierce winds, they are turned by a very small rudder wherever the pilot desires. 5 Even so the tongue is a little member and boasts great things. See how great a forest a little fire kindles! – James 3: 3-5
The tongue is a powerful muscle; it can harm as well as sooth. The smallest word of discouragement can tear someone down, while words of encouragement take time to build up. The Christian’s tongue needs to be under tight control at all times, lest it brings shame on the Lord’s name.
These verses show us how powerful the tongue really is. It is compared to the bit in a horse’s mouth, which turns the whole animal with very little pressure. It is also shown to be like the rudder on a ship, a relatively small piece that controls the direction of the whole ship. Then finally it is compared to a tiny spark that sets a whole forest ablaze.
Christians who are preppers, often face a double shot of criticism. Both are mocked openly in some circles, and how we react over time, will paint a picture, of who we truly serve.
The world listens closely to what Christians say to see if they really believe what they claim. A Christian who swears like a sailor, or one who is always critical of others, will be seen as a hypocrite. Words said in anger cannot be forgotten, only forgiven. The world is not in the forgiveness business, so watch your words, because surely someone else is.
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Today in Christian History
June 7th
1099 – The armies of the First Crusade (1096-99) reached the walls of Jerusalem.
1891 – English Baptist clergyman Charles H. Spurgeon preached the last sermon of his 38-year-long ministry at London’s Metropolitan Tabernacle. He died the following January.
1913 – Ohio-born Methodist evangelist George Bennard introduced his new hymn, ‘The Old Rugged Cross,’ during a revival he was conducting at Pokagon, Michigan.
1934 – Wycliffe Bible Translators held its first study course in linguistics at Sulphur Springs, Arkansas. The training session lasted 3 months.
1959 – English apologist C.S. Lewis wrote in a letter: ‘If we really think that home is elsewhere and that this life is a ‘wandering to find home,’ why should we not look forward to the arrival?’
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Source for Today in Christian History: www.studylight.org
