James 3:7-18

7For every species of beasts and birds, of reptiles and sea creatures, is tamed and has been tamed by the human race.

8But no one can tame the human tongue; it is a restless evil [undisciplined, unstable], full of deadly poison.

9With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in the likeness of God.

10Out of the same mouth come both blessing and cursing. These things, my brothers, should not be this way [for we have a moral obligation to speak in a manner that reflects our fear of God and profound respect for His precepts].

11Does a spring send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter water?

12Can a fig tree, my brothers, produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? Nor can salt water produce fresh.

13Who among you is wise and intelligent? Let him by his good conduct show his [good] deeds with the gentleness and humility of true wisdom.

14But if you have bitter jealousy and selfish ambition in your hearts, do not be arrogant, and [as a result] be in defiance of the truth.

15This [superficial] wisdom is not that which comes down from above, but is earthly (secular), natural (unspiritual), even demonic.

16For where jealousy and selfish ambition exist, there is disorder [unrest, rebellion] and every evil thing and morally degrading practice.

17But the wisdom from above is first pure [morally and spiritually undefiled], then peace-loving [courteous, considerate], gentle, reasonable [and willing to listen], full of compassion and good fruits. It is unwavering, without [self-righteous] hypocrisy [and self-serving guile].

18And the seed whose fruit is righteousness (spiritual maturity) is sown in peace by those who make peace [by actively encouraging goodwill between individuals].