Genuine Faith Chooses Words with Care
Proverbs 12:18 (NIV)
The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.
James 3:1-12
No ______________ can tame the tongue, but the ___________________can.
Galatians 5:16
But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.
Romans 8:26 says the Holy Spirit helps us in our weakness.
Seek ______________________________________________
James 1:19
Be ________________________________________________
Be ________________________________________________
Be ________________________________________________
James 4:11
Never ______________________________________________
Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)
Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen .
1 Thessalonians 5:11
Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing.
Connection Group Questions
Read James 3:1-12
What do you think James means (in verse 2) to when he says that one who controls his tongue is “a perfect man”?
Of the images that James uses in this passage, which one can you most relate to, and why?
Have each person in the group look up and read one of the following passages. What does each one say about the tongue?
Proverbs 6:16-17
Proverbs 10:19
Proverbs 12:22
Proverbs 17:27-28
Proverbs 18: 6-7, 13
Proverbs 26:20
Proverbs 28:23
How do you think the Holy Spirit can help you in controlling your tongue?
Read James 1:9. Which of the three be’s do you struggle with the most? Why?
Read James 4:11 What are some ways we can speak evil of other believers? What are some ways we can speak evil of unbelievers? Do you struggle in either of these areas? Explain.
Ephesians 4:29 and 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (see message notes) talk about building others up. For some it comes easy, but for most people it takes intentional effort. What are some ways you can become more intentional in building others up and encouraging others?
Pray for one another in your efforts to tame the tongue and build people up!
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