How do James’ words catch you today?
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=James%203%3A1-12&version=NRSV,NASB,PHILLIPS

VII.
Did you notice how James mentions how we can “tame” so many different animals,

For every species of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by the human species, but no one can tame the tongue … (James 3:7-8)

…. But when it comes to taming ourselves, our spirits, our speech, we fail.

I wonder why?

VIII.
Maybe before trying to answer the why question, we should devote some time to the “what” question.

James has called out attention to our “tongue.” To our pattern of communication and interaction with others.

What in your interaction with others do you notice seems to control you rather than you controlling it?

What do you react to in others that “sets you off”? What starts you down a path of negative feelings, speech and actions?

Maybe James’ reminder about how hard it is to control a small thing like our tongues, can open the way for us to examine other behaviors that we let rule us.

Has James helped you notice any behaviors or attitudes that are in the way of your blessing others?

Just moments ago, I came across this quote attributed to St Francis DeSales,

“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them – every day begin the task anew.”

Considering our own imperfections with patience. That seems a good way to “apply” James’ counsel.

Charles
{ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est}