“In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.” (James 3:5 nlt)

 

Have you ever seen a roast? I’m talking about the comedy performance, not the cut of beef. A roast is when several comedians and celebrities “pay tribute” to a featured guest. The way they pay tribute is through insults.

The tradition started over a century ago at the Friars Club in New York City. In the 1970s, Dean Martin hosted several celebrity hosts as part of his television show. In recent years, however, celebrity roasts have gained notoriety for their anything-goes atmosphere.

It seems that nothing is sacred anymore, not when there’s roasting to be done. No topic is off-limits. No insult is too vile. The further you push the envelope, the more memorable you are as a roaster. Some comedians have become famous because of their vicious roasting routines.

It makes you wonder why someone would volunteer to be roasted. Those who do are praised as good sports and being able to take a joke. Because, after all, it’s all in good fun. Everything is said in jest. So there’s no reason for anyone to get offended or take things personally.

But, of course, that’s not reality. And in recent years, roast participants have talked about how they couldn’t really laugh off some of the things that were said about them. How a single comment wrecked their self-confidence and even their mental health.

Their experiences highlight the truth of what James says in James 3:5: “In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire” (nlt).

People say, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” But that’s not true. You can probably remember words that hurt you deeply. Maybe someone told you that you’d never amount to anything. Or that there’s something wrong with your appearance. Those things are hard to forget.

The good news is, so are heartfelt compliments and words of encouragement. Think of some of the beautiful things your spouse—or your family members or other loved ones—said that still resonate with you today. That’s the point Proverbs 18:21 makes: “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences” (nlt). The choice is yours.

Proverbs 25:11says, “The right word at the right time is like precious gold set in silver” (cev). Saying the right thing at the right time is a gift whose value will increase over time. Your words have the potential to change lives. Ask God for the wisdom to use them to their best advantage.

Your tongue can leave a path of destruction in its wake—or it can leave a legacy of encouragement, healing, confidence-building, and love.

Reflection Question: In what area do you most need God’s help in controlling your tongue or using it for good?

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