“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."—James 3:6

News yesterday featured an article on last year's wildfire in California dubbed the largest in its history. While fires have frequently threatened the dry climate, but this one topped the list. It was unintentionally ignited by a man who drove a metal stake into the ground to seal up an in-ground wasp nest. Striking the stake, a spark flew and became an enraged fire that destroyed 460,000 acres.

What we say is no different. I can remember a few small statements in my youth that I and others ignited that had a resounding impact on my teenage years. Regardless of how inadvertent, accidental, or unintentional, they ignited thoughts, beliefs, and actions that left devastation in their path. James suggests above, they "stain" leaving a permanent mark and have the potential to alter the "entire course of one's life."

DO THIS: Don't spark fires.

PRAYER: God, forgive me for the fires I have set, and by the power of your Spirit help me to spark righteousness through my words in the life of others.