Sunday Devotions for Kids - Gossip, evils of the tongue.

Likewise the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider what a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole person, sets the whole course of his life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and creatures of the sea are being tamed and have been tamed by man, but no man can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:5-8

I've always like Norman Rockwell paintings. He was always able to portray humor through his images. And as in his above work, GOSSIP, he was able to take a lighthearted look at a potentially dangerous activity.

We are warned in the book of James just how powerful one word can be. The tongue is like a spark. A small thing, yet with the ability to cause great destruction. Calling names, complaining, tattling. Sometimes we do these things to those we love without even thinking about it. Have you ever told your brother or sister you hated them? Hate is a very strong word but how easily it rolls off our tongue. But how long will it take to fix that one little word. How long does it take to get your friend to forgive you when you've gossiped about them?

Our tongues can not be tamed but we be concientious of what we say. Words are important, choose yours with care. One word can cause big problems. Just look at the argument and anger caused in Norman Rockwell's GOSSIP!

Dear God, Thank you for reminding us of the power of our words. Help me today to speak your love and kindness. Help me to silence gossip and namecalling. Amen.