In this chapter of Job, God discusses the Leviathan. After this, Job’s questioning of God melts away and he repents. Today’s passage provides insight into a spiritual foe that is dangerous for followers of Jesus because its influence prevents the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. That foe is pride – spiritual pride and pride in our own abilities. 

Pride is associated with characteristics of the Leviathan. The Leviathan does not make “supplication,” that is, it does not seek God’s help. The Leviathan does not answer gently but is harsh and loose with words. The Leviathan does not keep covenants (promises) to God and others. 

Today’s verses describe that out of the prideful mouth come flaming torches and sparks of fire. The tongue has the power of life and death (Proverbs 18:21). The proud person uses their tongue for destruction. What do a few words matter? “How great a forest is set ablaze by such a small fire. And the tongue is a fire, a world of unrighteousness (James 3:5-6).” For those who claim to follow Jesus, Scripture warns that anyone who thinks they are religious but does not bridle their tongue, that person's religion is worthless (James 1:26).” Worthless!

These prideful ways are in opposition to the work and fruit of the Holy Spirit in our lives. In fact, these ungodly behaviors result in stubbornness and heart-armor so tight that air (the breath of God, the Holy Spirit) cannot get in. However, glory to God, Scripture also promises that our tongue can instead have the power of life and be like a rudder on a boat to steer ourselves and others toward the will of God (James chapter 3).

Dear Heavenly Father,

When Isaiah was in Your presence, he realized his sinful state and cried out, “Lord, I am a man of unclean lips!” Lord, so am I! Forgive me Lord, for the sins of my mouth. Lord, deliver me from a hard heart and a stiff neck. Set a Holy Spirit guard over my heart instead. Lord, keep watch over the door to my lips. Let not my heart and mouth be drawn toward what is evil, to take part in wicked deeds with people who are evildoers. Deliver me from temptations to juicy gossip, lies, evil speaking, and tearing others down. I invite the Holy Spirit and the Word of God to train and restore me in the use of my words. I pray to honor You and Your will with my mouth. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

Read the book of James (5 chapters). Read all of it with the mindset of applying what is said to the use of the tongue, and not only the verses that specifically address the words of our mouth. For example, acknowledge God’s faithfulness and gifts to you with your words. Do not show partiality with your words. Do not envy your neighbor with your words. Do not “bite and devour” one another with your words. Love your neighbor as yourself with your words.