On November 19, 1863, Abraham Lincoln delivered the “Gettysburg Address.” Although you might not be able to recite the entire speech from memory, you probably remember his opening words: “Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth, upon this continent, a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.”

Words create lasting impressions. We can use words to lift others up or tear people down. James points out that, because of the duplicity of our heart, we use words both ways. Even as believers, we may speak love at one moment and communicate hate the next. This should not be!

James addresses the issue of our speech because the tongue is difficult to control. While we may have learned how to tame the largest and wildest of animals, we seem to have limited capacity to control our own tongues (vv. 7–8). Why? Because our mouth expresses what is in our heart (Matt. 15:18–20). James directs our attention to the way we communicate with others. We may slander them directly or tear them down behind their backs. Why do we say such things? Because of an issue within our own heart. There may be many causes, but the outcome is always the same.

Perhaps instead of talking to other people, we should talk to God first. We can ask Him, “God, show me the source of my anger, insecurity, fear, etc. Why do I want to verbally respond in the way that I do?” After we prayerfully confess our sinful impulse, we can ask, “Holy Spirit, provide the power I need to respond in a way that glorifies You.” You might not be able to control your tongue, but God can.

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