The Steering Wheel of Your Destiny

Sermon Summary

James 3

The book of James is about encouragement in trials and tests. Chapter 3 delivers the message that our tongues can determine our destiny. Trials and tests reveal what is in our hearts. The message of the book of James reminds us that those who are truly followers of Christ must demonstrate their salvation in practical ways. In chapter 3, James, an elder of the church in Jerusalem, uses several pictures to illustrate that our tongue (our word) can control our lives. Much like a bridle for a horse or a rudder for a ship.  Our tongues (our words) can determine our destinies for either good or bad. As followers of Christ, our words should be used for good, to glorify God, and to build up other people. It is encouraging to know that if we allow the Holy Spirit to control our tongues, we will become consistent in how we represent God. He uses the analogy of a spring of water to teach us that curses and blessings, bitter and sweet water, do not flow from the same fountain. The root of the problem with negative words is the condition of our hearts. As Jesus says in Matthew 12:34b, “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.”

Scripture References from the Sermon

• 1 John 1:7-10
• James 3:1-18
• James 1:26-27
• Psalm 39:1
• James 1:19
• Proverbs 15:4
• Psalm 50:23
• Proverbs 10:19
• Proverbs 4:23
• Proverbs 18:21
• Proverbs 6:2
• Matthew 12:36-37
• Luke 6:45
• Numbers 13:26-14:2
• Matthew 12:34
• John 1:7-9
• James 4:7
• Psalm 119:11
• 2 Corinthians 5:17
• Ephesians 4:29-32
• Proverbs 4:23

Discussion Questions

• What are some improper uses of the tongue?
• Have my words caused me or other people to stumble?
• How seriously does God take the use of our words? 
• What is the purpose of the ship’s rudder and the horse’s bridle?
• Are you willing to let the Holy Spirit control your tongue? If so, who will you give permission to hold you accountable to this?