Conversations of the Incredible Family
A Tight Rein

Scripture Reading:  James 1:19-27

Key Verse: James 1:26

If anyone considers himself religious and yet does not keep a tight rein on his tongue, he deceives himself and his religion is worthless.

We don’t have to be a big fan of horseback riding to understand the phrase: “keep a tight rein.”  This phrase means that the rider is in control of the direction and control of the horse.  The Apostle James reminds us that we need to keep a tight rein on our tongue.  In other words, we must be in control of the conversations we allow to come out of our mouths.

            Our conversations can take negative paths that hurt and discourage the people around us.  This is not referring to making decisions of discipline with our children.  This is referring to how we deliver the message.  Our homes must have discipline but that need not take on a harsh negative atmosphere.  We can be firm without being mean spirited.  If we don’t control the reins in this area, our children will learn to be negative and abusive in their conversations as well.

            When we stay in control, we can guide our tongue to the positive paths.  We can look for good things to highlight.  We can talk in ways that encourage our family members.  For some reason it is easier to let the tongue have its way rather than controlling it.  With God’s divine help, we can keep a tight rein on our tongue.  We can flow with wholesome talk that blesses our family.

Father, I need your help and reminders to keep my tongue under control today.  I want my words to be a positive influence on others.  In Jesus’  name, amen.