Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Week 1: Tuesday

Welcome Back,

So hopefully you have already started your reading assignment for the week.  Tonight let's consider chapter 1:

In this Chapter Karen writes this about James 3:6:

The passage in James also talks about how the tongue can corrupt our whole body.  I myself know very well from the times I have wished I could take back my words; often my whole body is affected.  My mind races with regret.  My heart pounds.  My stomach churns and becomes tied up in knots as I fret and stress over what now might happen.  My fingers fidget, and I can't seem to concentrate.  Sometimes my feet pace as I ponder what I possibly can do now to get myself out of the royal mess I now find myself in.  p.14

Have you ever felt this way?

Let's Chat.... (use the comment box below to discuss any or all of your responses to these questions)


  • How does the concept of our whole body being affected when we misuse our tongue tie into what James says in chapter 3, the last part of verse 2? 

  • The ESV and NIV versions of the Bible use the word perfect in James 3:2.  The HCSB translation uses the word mature.  The original Greek word used here is teleios. It is an adjective that means full-grown, complete, having reached maturity, especially as it relates to character.  Does knowing the background of this word shed any new light on what you think this verse means?
Have a great day!

Ellen



2 comments:

  1. 1. I think of the fact that when one feels guilt/anger/sadness over something they said, it tends to eat at them, causing added stress, which causes us to lose focus, lose sleep and other negative side effects of stress - including possibly causing us to say more stupid things to other people who may not have anything to do with the situation (such as Jason's example of spouses, children, friends, etc.). You are now not setting the example God wants from us.

    2. I think of how we learn as we grow older/gain experience. I said tons of stupid things growing up that I wish I could go back and kick myself for. As I've gotten older, I know better (most of the time). I know when to "pick my battles". I've "been there, done that" and have seen how words can effect relationships and the feelings of others. I'm not perfect - I still need lots of work - but as I've "matured", I feel like I'm getting a better idea of what is expected of me. Not sure if that's what it means, but that's what I think of when reading it.

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  2. I agree with you Liz. I have, in the past, had times when I said something and then it haunted me in the physical through headaches, stomach aches, or anxiety. I am not learning to control what I say and it has the opposite, positive effect. I am spared those negative physical signs and instead I am filled with Peace & Joy.

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