What does James 3:10 mean?
James continues to make the case that our tongues—the words we use which reveal our fallen hearts—are evil and uncontrollable. In the previous verse, he wrote that we human beings use our tongues both to praise God, the Creator, and to curse other people who are created in God's likeness. Now in this verse, he says what is becoming clear to us: this contrary use of words doesn't make sense. More specifically, it shouldn't be that way. Blessing and cursing shouldn't originate from the same mouth.We must take note that James is talking to "brothers." He is speaking to fellow believers in Jesus Christ. This is not merely a problem for "other" people, or for unsaved people. People who trust God may still be learning to rely on His power to control the words they say and don't say. In fact, Jesus told his disciples to give a blessing to those who curse them (Luke 6:28). Paul echoed that command (Romans 12:14).
It's clear, though, that we will not achieve control over our words in our own power. We're going to need God's help.
James 3:1–12 discusses talking. This passage continues James's big idea that faith and works go together. Specifically, that what one does (or says) proves what they really believe. Those who trust God, who really believe Him, begin to be changed in their speech, as well. And yet, everyone still stumbles. The tongue is untamable, capable of great destruction. In fact, James calls it a fire and a restless evil that is itself set on fire by hell. We need to be changed. It shouldn't be that we praise God and curse the people made in His image. And yet, as fallen people, we do just that.
Human words are powerful. Our tongues are small, but they are capable of wreaking great havoc. Any person who could perfectly control their words would be in perfect control of their entire bodies. Instead, as sinful human beings, our tongues are untamable. Our words are fire, igniting the entire course of our lives. Blessing God and cursing people should not come out of the same mouth; we are corrupted. James concludes the chapter by exploring what it means to be truly wise. True wisdom is not necessarily found in those with the most education, money, or friends. Rather, wise people can be spotted living wisely in humility, participating in good works, enjoying peace, singleness of purpose, and gentle lifestyles.
