“Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring send forth fresh water and bitter from the same opening?”
(James 3:10,11 NKJV)
I have always had a sweet tooth and used to eat quite a bit
of sugar. It took almost 10 years
of trying various medicines and seeing
many specialists before I finally discovered that sugar was a major contributor
to my constant headaches. Avoiding sugar has been challenging, and it is an
ongoing struggle to limit it. I try, but the holidays are particularly
challenging. All of the seasonal
cookies, cakes, and candies look and taste so good, and I do make exceptions at
this time of year and just deal with the headaches.
My Bible study group is currently studying the book of
James. As I was reading the above
passage, I thought about the words that come out of my mouth, especially
concerning my health problems. Although
I may not be cursing God or man, it is still very easy to complain or be
negative in my conversations with others.
During the holidays I may spend more time communicating with
people, and it’s natural for them to ask how I am doing. I don’t need to downplay my problems, but they
can be shared in a way that is sweet rather than bitter. As I share my struggles, I can also share
specific victories God has given me over them and the strength He gives me through
them. I can give praise to God for all
the problems I don’t have, and rather than dwelling on my own issues, I can
encourage and edify others.
As I monitor how many sweets go into my mouth this holiday
season, I hope I will be just as careful as to what comes out of it – words
that are filled with the sweetness of God’s goodness and mercy in my life. And a bite or two of Christmas treats will be the perfect reminder.
Prayer: Heavenly
Father, as I celebrate this Christmas
season, help me be a positive influence to those around me through my
speech. Let my words be an overflow of a
heart that praises You (Matthew 12:34).
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