Word problems are heart problems

If you have ever read the book of James, you will remember that he speaks strongly on how we ought to speak to one another.  Some moments, some days, some hours, my words are so troubled, and so hurtful, and I know it's a reflection of my heart.  I want to be patient, I try to be firm and kind, and the children are griping and nagging and begging and whining.  And I lose it.  I say things out of anger and impatience.


Our family verse this winter has been this:  


"Kind words are like honey.  Sweet for the soul and healthy for the body." found in Proverbs


Selfish ambition, jealousy, envy, boasting, and lying all spill from the lips as evidence of the heart.  So as I consider what else James says about my words, I want to ask myself these questions:

•  Am I seeking the admiration of others for my words, power, wisdom, riches…or that they see Christ is me and me pursuing Him and living a life that reflects his character?
•  Does my speech exalt Christ?
•  “as for me, may I never boast about anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.  Because of that cross, my interest in this world has been crucified, and the world’s interest in me has also died…what counts is whether we have been transformed into a new creation.” Gal 6:14-15
• Does my speech point to myself and my glory? or the Father and His Glory?

W  Word problems are heart problems


tru   Truth in the mind forms truth in the heart; new birth creates new affections & new speech patterns of the      
        Gospel.  


        The sanctification of the tongue is a work in us that is driven by the Word of God coming to us as we
        hear it and indwelling us as we receive it.


       The most important single aid to my ability to use my tongue for the glory of Jesus is allowing the Word 
       of God to dwell in me so richly that I cannot speak with any other accent.  (John Piper)

I struggle and strive to improve and I flounder and fail.  I wonder if it's worth it all.  I wonder if I'll ever get it right.  And then I realized that's it's not about my abilities because I'll always fail.  I come to the Father with humility and receive His Grace.


His divine power has granted us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who called us by his own glory and excellence, by which he has granted to us his precious and very great promises.  (2 Peter 1:3*)


It's only in HIS power, not mine, that I can accomplish these acts of obedience out of full love for my Savior.