“Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body.” - James 3:5-6 (NIV)
Dear Southport UMC,
I pray these words find you and your families well. Have you ever squeezed toothpaste out of the tube in a hurry, only to realize there’s no way to put it back in? Our words are just like that—once they’re out, there’s no stuffing them back in.
For example, imagine you’re hanging out with friends, and someone shares their latest outfit or a new hairstyle. Without thinking, you blurt out, “Wow, that’s… bold!”—which everyone knows is code for “not my favorite.” What started as a casual comment can quickly turn the mood awkward, and suddenly your friend’s excitement has turned into self-consciousness. You didn’t mean to rain on their parade, but it happened all the same.
James reminds us that the tongue, though small, can spark big problems. Just like that toothpaste, once the words are out, there’s no easy way to take them back. A single careless comment can damage confidence, strain friendships, or create tension where there was none.
So, here’s our challenge this week: before speaking, take a moment to think about the impact of your words. Ask yourself, “Will this build up or tear down?” To say that this is a challenge is a very big understatement but something we must strive towards in order to truly put our faith into action.
I can not wait to see everyone in worship and I pray you have a blessed weekend.
Blessings,
Rev. William G. Nickrand
