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. 

 

This summer the great fires in Colorado were a visual picture of what a spark can do.  Hundreds of acres were burned and homes and lives were lost.  I couldn’t get that image out of my mind when I read this verse. 

 

We all know what the destructive results can be with a tongue out of control: negativism, blame, critical-mindedness, emotional hurt and guilt.  For this piece I was challenged to consider the opposite.  What about using my tongue for praise and gratefulness? Imagine what a peacemaker I could be if the Holy Spirit ignited a blaze of gratitude, catching everything around me on fire with praises and thankfulness. 

 

Acrylic on canvas

James 3.5