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October 2024's Featured Sermon of the Month
In this month’s featured sermon, Pastor Jaime discussed the influence of the tongue, drawing on James' analogy of controlling horses with bits and steering ships with rudders. Though small, the tongue wields significant power over our actions and relationships.
“Behold, we put bits in the horses’ mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body.” (James 3:3)
The message focused on how, like these small instruments can control large entities, the tongue can dictate the course of our lives and the impact we have on others.
The Destructive Nature of the Tongue
Pastor emphasized that, while the tongue has great potential for good, it can also be incredibly destructive. Just as a small fire can lead to a blazing inferno, careless words can wreak havoc in our relationships and community. Pastor urged us to recognize the damage that harsh words can cause, often leaving lasting scars.
“The tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity... it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature.” – James 3:6
The Difficulty of Taming the Tongue
“But the tongue can no man tame; it is an unruly evil, full of deadly poison.” – James 3:8
Pastor spoke about the difficulty of taming the tongue, acknowledging that while humans can train animals—lions, bears, even birds—the tongue remains largely untamed. He highlighted that we must be aware of our words, especially those spoken in anger, because once said, they cannot be taken back.
He also reminded us that while apologies are important, words leave a lasting impact, emphasizing the need for vigilance in our speech.
The Discrepancy in Our Speech
“Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.” – James 3:10
Pastor then pointed out the discrepancy that often exists in our speech—how the same tongue can bless God and curse others. He called the congregation to examine whether their words reflect the love and truth of God.
He reminded us to be consistent in our speech, both inside and outside the church, noting that our words should always be acceptable to God, even in challenging situations.
“Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer.” – Psalm 19:14
A Call to Harvest Baptist Church to demonstrate Self-Control and Grace
Pastor concluded by encouraging everyone at Harvest Baptist Church to exercise self-control over their speech, especially in stressful or frustrating moments. He shared practical examples, such as maintaining kindness with loved ones at home and with service workers.
He urged the congregation to remember that, as representatives of Christ, our words carry weight. We should strive to speak in a way that brings glory to God and demonstrates the love of Christ to everyone we encounter.
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