Devotionals by Raul Ries

TUESDAY July 21, 2026

Blessings and Cursings

With it [the tongue] we bless our God and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the similitude of God.  Out of the same mouth proceed blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not to be so.
James 3:9-10

James observed the sinful lives of Christians who had a big problem with the way they used their tongues. He pointed out to believers the importance of not having a double standard of life. What comes out of a person’s mouth is a clear indication of where they really are spiritually. James told them blessings and cursings should not come out of the same mouth. He helped them to examine their lives.

Seriously, we still have the same problems among Christians today. In the congregation, believers can sing to the Lord, “God is so good. I love you, Jesus.” Yet after they bless God, some go straight out of the church service into their cars, and they begin to cuss at their wives or children––sad.

James exhorts us by letting us know that cursing is no longer a fitting behavior for Christians. Blessings and cursings do not go together. A person’s mouth can utter filthy words that sound as if they came right out of the sewer! Christ will transform the life of a Christian, but there has to be obedience to God’s Word (Romans 12:1-2; 1 Peter 1:22).

Be careful with your words. Understand, what comes out of your mouth came out of your heart! When a person speaks out of anger or bitterness, it is as if fire came out of their mouth. Those words are like venom––cruel poison. Seriously, when believers continue to use their tongues inappropriately, other people’s lives can be easily damaged.

Have you ever taken the time to listen to yourself and hear what is coming out of your mouth? It might help you to understand how you need God’s help to change.

Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles.
~Proverbs 21:23~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!