ECWA Devotion for Friday 9 January 2026

FRIDAY, 9 JANUARY

TEXT: JAMES 3:6-12

 

TOPIC: THE TONGUE CAN DO IRREPARABLE DAMAGE

 

JAMES 3:6-12 NIV

 

6: The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell.

 

7: All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind,

 

8: but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison.

 

9: With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness.

 

10: Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be.

 

11: Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?

 

12: My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

      

THE TONGUE CAN DO IRREPARABLE DAMAGE

 

James describes the tongue as a “fire” due to its destructive nature.

 

It has the power to harm relationships and reputations, spread negativity, and leave lasting emotional wounds.

 

The inconsistency of the tongue, praising God while cursing others, highlights the need for integrity in our speech.

 

Remember, words can build up or tear down.

 

QUESTION: Have your words caused harm to anyone?

 

PRAYER: Lord, help me to submit my tongue to you, in Jesus name.

EVANGELICAL CHURCH WINNING ALL (ECWA) FOOD FOR THE DAY 2026.