A fire can begin with just a small spark, but it can grow to destroy a city. A fire reportedly started in the O’Leary bam in Chicago at 8:30 p.m., October 8, 1871; and because that fire spread, over 100,000 people were left homeless, 17,500 buildings were destroyed, and 300 people died. It cost the city over $400,000,000.
Our words can start fires. “Where no wood is, there the fire goeth out: so where there is no talebearer, the strife ceaseth. As coals are to burning coals, and wood to fire; so is a contentious man to kindle strife” (Proverbs 26:20-21).
In some churches, there are members or officers who cannot control their tongues, and the result is destruction. Let them move out of town or be replaced in office, and a beautiful spirit of harmony and love takes over.
Like a fire, the tongue can “heat things up.” A hot head and a hot heart can lead to burning words that later we will regret.
Scripture to heed: “He who restrains his words has knowledge, and he who has a cool spirit is a man of understanding” (Proverbs 17:27, NASB).
More Scripture: Proverbs 14:29; James 3.
Action assignment: Analyze your use of words. How is the tone when you are upset? Is your conversation in keeping with Colossians 4:6?
WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in