Faith Unplugged

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James 3 – Words That Build

Your tongue can be a spark or a shelter.

Chris McKinney's avatar
Chris McKinney
Aug 16, 2025
∙ Paid

I’m Pastor Chris, and this is where we slow down, open God’s Word, and see how it speaks into real life. Each devotional brings the passage to life, gives you space to reflect, and helps you respond in prayer. When you go paid, you’ll also get daily reflection questions, a prayer written for that day, and the ability to join the conversation.

The Power of Small Things

James gives two vivid pictures: a rudder guiding a massive ship, and a small spark igniting a forest fire. The tongue, though small, wields tremendous influence.

The Trigger

We’ve all said something in frustration or sarcasm, only to watch it cut deep. Words, once spoken, cannot be taken back.

The God-Moment

James warns that our tongues can be “set on fire by hell” if left unchecked. But the reverse is also true. When surrendered to God, our words can be a steady stream of blessing.

The Response and the Shift

This isn’t about willpower alone. Taming the tongue is a work of the Spirit. It’s about letting God transform our hearts, because our words are simply the overflow of what’s inside.

For Us Today

Ask yourself, are my words steering relationships toward trust and grace, or division and hurt? Every conversation is a chance to plant seeds of life or destruction.


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