Discipline of Tongue
The tongue is one of the smallest parts of the human body, yet its influence is disproportionately immense. In Disciplines of a Godly Man, R. Kent Hughes masterfully explores the profound power of the tongue, weaving biblical insights with historical examples to emphasize the necessity of discipline in speech. The chapter on the tongue is both a cautionary tale and a call to action, urging men to use their words for good while avoiding the destructive tendencies that come so naturally to human nature.
The Tongue's Potential for Destruction
James's analogies of the tongue to a horse's bit, a ship's rudder, and a spark are central to Hughes's discussion. Each analogy highlights how small things can exert tremendous influence. A bit can direct a powerful horse, a rudder steers a massive ship, and a spark can burn down an entire forest. Similarly, the tongue, though small, can shape lives and destinies. Hughes describes the tongue as a "world of evil" capable of corrupting the whole person, spreading conflict, and tarnishing reputations.
Gossip, innuendo, flattery, and criticism are how the tongue wreaks havoc. Gossip, for instance, spreads false or exaggerated information, often causing irreparable damage to relationships and reputations. Hughes likens innuendo to a whisper that sows doubt and suspicion, eroding trust among individuals. Flattery, though seemingly positive, is manipulative and insincere, serving selfish motives rather than building genuine connections. Criticism, particularly within the Christian church, can divide communities and stifle spiritual growth. These destructive patterns reveal the tongue's ability to cause harm on both personal and communal levels.
The Spiritual Implications of Speech
Hughes points out that the tongue is more than just a tool for communication—it is a reflection of the heart. Drawing from James 3:6, he compares the tongue's influence to hell's fire, illustrating its capacity for evil when left uncontrolled. Words are often the outward expression of inner attitudes, and unbridled speech exposes spiritual immaturity and a lack of self-control.
For the wellness of my soul, let's turn to James 3
"Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness. For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body. If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.
How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire! And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness. The tongue is set among our members, staining the whole body, setting on fire the entire course of life, and set on fire by hell. For every kind of beast and bird, of reptile and sea creature, can be tamed and has been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so. Does a spring pour forth from the same opening both fresh and salt water? Can a fig tree, my brothers, bear olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Neither can a salt pond yield fresh water."
This concept is particularly relevant when individuals are likelier to speak impulsively during stress or pressure. Under such circumstances, the tongue reveals what lies in the heart: bitterness, anger, or grace. Hughes argues that true spirituality is measured not by outward religious practices but by the ability to control one's speech. Habitually unbridled speech, he warns, nullifies the authenticity of other religious practices and undermines one's witness to others.
The Tongue's Power for Good
Despite its potential for destruction, the tongue also has the power to do tremendous good. Hughes highlights its role in proclaiming salvation, sanctification, healing, and worship. Through words, believers can share the gospel, encourage others, and offer comfort and hope. A disciplined tongue can build relationships, foster trust, and strengthen communities.
Hughes emphasizes that controlling the tongue is not merely a matter of willpower; it requires spiritual discipline. Confession, prayer, and personal resolutions are essential steps in this process. Confession involves acknowledging the harm caused by one's words and seeking forgiveness from God and those affected. Prayer provides the strength and guidance to overcome the natural tendencies toward gossip, criticism, and negativity. Personal resolutions help individuals commit to speaking truthfully and kindly, creating a habit of positive communication.
Practical Steps for Disciplining the Tongue
Hughes offers several practical steps for those seeking to discipline their speech. First, he encourages readers to always speak the truth, as truth fosters trust and strengthens relationships. He advises refraining from gossip and flattery, which undermine integrity and create an atmosphere of insincerity. Avoiding degrading humor is another critical step, as such speech can demean others and damage relationships.
I am reminded of Philippians 4:8
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.
The discipline of the tongue also involves cultivating habits of encouragement and edification. Hughes urges readers to use their words to uplift others, recognizing the power of speech to bring healing and hope. He reminds believers that their words should reflect the character of Christ, who spoke truth with grace and compassion.
The Tongue as a Test of True Religion
Hughes echoes James's assertion that unbridled speech indicates worthless religion. A person's ability to control their tongue is a key indicator of genuine faith and spiritual maturity. While it is impossible to tame the tongue entirely, consistent efforts to discipline one's speech demonstrate a commitment to living out the principles of the gospel.
Hughes argues that the tongue is both a powerful tool and a dangerous weapon. Its impact extends beyond the individual, influencing relationships, communities, and nations. By recognizing its potential for both good and harm, believers can take intentional steps to use their words wisely, glorifying God and building up those around them.
Final Thoughts
Hughes's insights in Disciplines of a Godly Man serve as a timeless reminder of the power of the tongue; in a world where words are often wielded carelessly, his call to discipline and accountability is more relevant than ever. By guarding their speech, believers avoid the pitfalls of gossip, criticism, and negativity and create opportunities to encourage, inspire, and uplift others. The disciplined use of the tongue, guided by prayer and rooted in truth, is a mark of true godliness and a testament to the gospel's transformative power.
Question #1 Why does controlling the tongue seem so challenging, even for believers, and what does this reveal about the human heart?
Let's start with Romans 3: 9-18:
For we have already charged that all, both Jews and Greeks, are under sin, as it is written:
"None is righteous, no, not one;
no one understands;
no one seeks for God.
All have turned aside; together they have become worthless;
no one does good,
not even one."
"Their throat is an open grave;
they use their tongues to deceive."
"The venom of asps is under their lips."
"Their mouth is full of curses and bitterness."
"Their feet are swift to shed blood;
in their paths are ruin and misery,
and the way of peace they have not known."
"There is no fear of God before their eyes."
As a believer, I often reflect on the state of my heart, a realization that resonates deeply within me. If my innermost thoughts and feelings were openly displayed, I sometimes wonder how anyone could love me at all. By our very nature, we are entirely depraved—a truth rooted in Adam and Eve's original sin in the Garden of Eden.
During my daily self-examination, I feel the weight of Romans 3:9 bearing down on me, reminding me that I am no different from anyone else in my sinful nature. Yet, even amidst this truth, I cling to repentance and place my unwavering faith in Christ our King. Any goodness that might emerge from within me is purely a result of the Holy Spirit's transformative work. The acts of kindness and righteousness I strive for stand as a testament to the finished work of Christ on the cross—His sacrifice that brings me hope and redemption.
Ephesians 2:8-9 captures this beautifully: "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast." This passage sums up what I meditate on, reminding me that my worth comes not from my deeds but from God's grace alone. It's all too easy for my thoughts to drift towards trivial matters, often overshadowing the overwhelming importance of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
When considering why controlling our hearts and words is so difficult, we must acknowledge our fallen nature—one that traces back to the sin of Genesis with Adam and Eve. If we are honest with ourselves, it only takes a moment of reflection to realize that, compared to the standards of a supreme, sovereign, loving, and merciful God, we consistently fall short of His laws and expectations. This undeniable truth is exactly why we desperately need a Savior.
Question #2: How can Christians create habits that make their speech a consistent source of encouragement and healing?
To deepen our connection with God, we must embrace essential practices such as prayer, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit, and meditating on the profound truths in His Word. It is vital to consciously replace our old, harmful habits with ones that reflect godliness and righteousness. At the core of this journey lies prayer, the foundational practice we are called to incorporate into our daily routines. Through prayer, we open a direct line of communication with our Heavenly Father, who embodies love, compassion, and mercy.
You may wonder, "What should I pray about?" Consider asking for a heart that genuinely repents sin, recognizing and turning away from the wrongs in our lives. Additionally, seek God's intervention in your struggles and battles. Our God is far from passive; He did not create the universe only to remain distant. Throughout Scripture, we see His sovereignty at work, showing that He is actively involved in every detail of His creation, including the smallest threads woven into our daily lives.
In the Gospel of Matthew, we receive a beautiful picture of our Father's generosity and grace. Jesus reassures us with the words: "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. Or which one of you, if his son asks him for bread, will give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a serpent? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give good things to those who ask him!" This passage encourages us to approach God with our needs, trusting in His eagerness to provide.
Moreover, immersing ourselves in God's Word is crucial. As believers, our comprehension of God deepens when we actively read and engage with what He has shared. Remembering John Piper's phrase, "God wrote a book!" is a powerful reminder of the precious gift we have in the Scriptures. Within those pages, God reveals stories and letters that showcase His character and His desires for us, allowing us to grow in our relationship with Him and to carry forth the message of His Son.
Therefore, we are called to weave prayer into our lives, deeply engage with the Scriptures, and meditate on their insights. Through these practices, we can transform our hearts and tongues' deceptive tendencies into the truth and grace that arise from a closer walk with God.
Question #3: What does the way we use our tongue reveal about our witness to the world, and how can we align our speech more closely with the character of Christ?
Galatians 5:16-26 answers this well.
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are evident: sexual immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmity, strife, jealousy, fits of anger, rivalries, dissensions, divisions, envy, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these. I warn you, as I warned you before, that those who do such things will not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. And those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also keep in step with the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another.
*The following content has been prepared using advanced artificial intelligence tools, such as (but not limited to) FirefliesAI, ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Grammarly. These resources have facilitated the drafting, grammatical refinement, and fact-checking processes. While AI generated and organized the content, Kevin Apolinar meticulously reviewed and edited all concepts, interpretations, and final decisions to ensure accuracy, relevance, and compliance with professional standards.
