The Transformative Power of Words in Our Lives
Summary
### Summary
Today, we explored the profound impact of words, drawing wisdom from James Chapter 3. Words, though small, wield immense power, much like a bit in a horse's mouth or a rudder on a ship. They can direct our lives and the lives of others, either towards growth and encouragement or towards destruction and division. We reflected on the lie we were told as children—"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me"—and acknowledged the deep and lasting impact words can have.
We delved into the directional power of words, emphasizing that what we speak about often becomes our focus and reality. Coaches, like Ty Lue of the Cleveland Cavaliers, understand this well, using words to inspire and create momentum. Similarly, our words can set the course for our lives and the lives of those around us.
We also discussed the destructive potential of words, recognizing that careless or hurtful words can cause lasting damage. In a world filled with divisive and reckless speech, we, as followers of Christ, are called to use our words to build up and unite rather than tear down.
To harness the power of our words for good, we must focus on encouragement—both towards others and ourselves. Encouragement can instill courage and hope, often providing the exact boost someone needs to persevere. Additionally, the words we speak over ourselves are crucial. Positive self-talk, grounded in the truths of who we are in Christ, can transform our self-perception and confidence.
We concluded with a practical exercise, encouraging everyone to speak life-giving words over themselves, affirming their worth and potential in God's eyes. This practice can help uproot the lies we've believed and replace them with the truth of God's love and purpose for us.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Directional Power of Words: Our words shape our reality and future. Just as a coach uses words to inspire and direct a team, we can use our words to set a positive course for our lives and the lives of others. What we speak about often becomes our focus and reality. [43:24]
2. The Destructive Potential of Words: Careless or hurtful words can cause lasting damage, much like a spark can set a forest on fire. In a world filled with divisive speech, we must be mindful of the power our words hold and strive to use them to build up rather than tear down. [48:36]
3. Encouragement as a Superpower: Encouragement is a powerful tool that can instill courage and hope in others. By speaking life-giving words, we can provide the exact boost someone needs to persevere and continue on their path. [56:13]
4. Positive Self-Talk: The words we speak over ourselves matter significantly. Positive self-talk, grounded in the truths of who we are in Christ, can transform our self-perception and confidence. This practice can help uproot the lies we've believed and replace them with God's truth. [01:01:35]
5. Speaking Life Over Ourselves and Others: We must be intentional about speaking life-giving words over ourselves and others. This practice can help us and those around us to see ourselves as God sees us, full of potential and deeply loved. [01:12:18]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[32:14] - New Parent Resource in App
[33:36] - Introduction and Happy Father's Day
[34:21] - Middle School Memories
[37:07] - The Power of Words
[39:08] - James Chapter 3: The Tongue
[43:24] - Directional Power of Words
[48:36] - Destructive Potential of Words
[56:13] - Encouragement as a Superpower
[01:01:35] - Positive Self-Talk
[01:12:18] - Speaking Life Over Ourselves and Others
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. James 3:1-12 (NIV)
> "Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. 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. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water."
#### Observation Questions
1. What analogies does James use to describe the power of the tongue in James 3:1-12?
2. According to the sermon, how did the coach Ty Lue use words to inspire his team? [45:02]
3. What are some examples given in the sermon of the destructive potential of words? [48:36]
4. How does the sermon suggest we should use our words to build up others? [56:13]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why does James compare the tongue to a bit in a horse's mouth and a rudder on a ship? What does this imply about the power of our words?
2. How can careless or hurtful words cause lasting damage, according to both James 3 and the sermon? [48:36]
3. What does the sermon mean by "encouragement as a superpower," and how can this concept be applied in our daily lives? [56:13]
4. How does positive self-talk, as discussed in the sermon, align with the teachings in James 3 about the power of the tongue? [01:01:35]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when someone's words had a significant positive or negative impact on you. How did it shape your actions or feelings? [37:07]
2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of speaking life-giving words over ourselves. What are some specific affirmations you can start saying to yourself daily? [01:01:35]
3. Think about your current conversations. Are there any patterns of speech that you need to change to avoid causing harm or division? How can you start making those changes? [48:36]
4. How can you use your words to encourage someone in your life this week? Identify a specific person and plan what you will say to uplift them. [56:13]
5. The sermon mentioned the lie "Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me." How can you help others, especially children, understand the true impact of words? [37:07]
6. In what ways can you be more intentional about using your words to build up and unite rather than tear down? Share a practical step you can take this week. [50:24]
7. How can you incorporate the practice of positive self-talk into your daily routine? What specific truths about your identity in Christ will you focus on? [01:01:35]
Devotional
Day 1: The Directional Power of Words
Our words shape our reality and future. Just as a coach uses words to inspire and direct a team, we can use our words to set a positive course for our lives and the lives of others. What we speak about often becomes our focus and reality. [43:24]
Words have a profound impact on our lives and the lives of those around us. They act as a guiding force, much like a bit in a horse's mouth or a rudder on a ship. When we speak positively and with intention, we can direct our lives towards growth and encouragement. Conversely, negative or careless words can lead us down a path of destruction and division. It's essential to recognize the power our words hold and use them wisely.
In the same way that a coach like Ty Lue of the Cleveland Cavaliers uses words to inspire and create momentum, we too can use our words to inspire and uplift others. By focusing on positive and life-giving speech, we can set a course for our lives that aligns with God's purpose and brings about positive change. Remember, what we speak about often becomes our focus and reality.
James 3:3-4 (ESV): "If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs."
Reflection: Think about the words you have spoken over the past week. How have they shaped your reality and the reality of those around you? What changes can you make to ensure your words are guiding you and others towards growth and encouragement?
Day 2: The Destructive Potential of Words
Careless or hurtful words can cause lasting damage, much like a spark can set a forest on fire. In a world filled with divisive speech, we must be mindful of the power our words hold and strive to use them to build up rather than tear down. [48:36]
Words have the potential to cause significant harm if not used carefully. Just as a small spark can ignite a massive forest fire, a single careless or hurtful word can cause lasting damage to relationships and communities. In today's world, where divisive and reckless speech is rampant, it is crucial for us to be mindful of the impact our words can have.
As followers of Christ, we are called to use our words to build up and unite rather than tear down. This means being intentional about the language we use and striving to speak words of kindness, encouragement, and truth. By doing so, we can create an environment of love and support, reflecting the heart of God in our interactions with others.
Proverbs 16:24 (ESV): "Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body."
Reflection: Reflect on a time when someone's words caused you pain. How did it affect you? Now think about your own words—are there any you need to apologize for or make amends for? How can you be more intentional about using your words to build up rather than tear down?
Day 3: Encouragement as a Superpower
Encouragement is a powerful tool that can instill courage and hope in others. By speaking life-giving words, we can provide the exact boost someone needs to persevere and continue on their path. [56:13]
Encouragement is a powerful and transformative tool that can make a significant difference in someone's life. When we speak words of encouragement, we instill courage, hope, and strength in others, often providing the exact boost they need to persevere through challenging times. Encouragement can be the difference between someone giving up and someone continuing on their path with renewed determination.
In a world where negativity and criticism are prevalent, choosing to be a source of encouragement can have a profound impact. By speaking life-giving words, we can uplift those around us and help them see their potential and worth. Encouragement is not just about making someone feel good; it's about empowering them to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
Reflection: Think of someone in your life who could use some encouragement today. What specific words or actions can you offer to uplift and support them? How can you make encouragement a regular practice in your interactions with others?
Day 4: Positive Self-Talk
The words we speak over ourselves matter significantly. Positive self-talk, grounded in the truths of who we are in Christ, can transform our self-perception and confidence. This practice can help uproot the lies we've believed and replace them with God's truth. [01:01:35]
The words we speak to ourselves are just as important as the words we speak to others. Positive self-talk, grounded in the truths of who we are in Christ, can have a transformative effect on our self-perception and confidence. When we speak life-giving words over ourselves, we begin to see ourselves as God sees us—full of potential and deeply loved.
Negative self-talk can be incredibly damaging, reinforcing lies and limiting beliefs that hold us back. By intentionally practicing positive self-talk, we can uproot these lies and replace them with the truth of God's love and purpose for us. This shift in mindset can lead to greater self-confidence, resilience, and a deeper sense of identity in Christ.
Psalm 139:14 (ESV): "I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well."
Reflection: Take a moment to reflect on the words you speak to yourself. Are they life-giving and aligned with God's truth? Write down a few positive affirmations based on Scripture that you can speak over yourself daily to reinforce your identity in Christ.
Day 5: Speaking Life Over Ourselves and Others
We must be intentional about speaking life-giving words over ourselves and others. This practice can help us and those around us to see ourselves as God sees us, full of potential and deeply loved. [01:12:18]
Speaking life-giving words over ourselves and others is a powerful practice that can transform our lives and the lives of those around us. When we intentionally choose to speak words of affirmation, encouragement, and truth, we help others see themselves as God sees them—full of potential and deeply loved. This practice not only uplifts and empowers others but also reinforces our own understanding of God's love and purpose for us.
In a world where negative and critical speech is common, being a source of life-giving words can make a significant difference. By speaking words that build up and inspire, we create an environment of love, support, and growth. This intentional practice can help us and those around us to live more fully into the identity and potential that God has given us.
Ephesians 4:29 (ESV): "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."
Reflection: Consider the words you speak to those around you. Are they life-giving and encouraging? How can you be more intentional about speaking words that build up and inspire others? Make a commitment to speak at least one life-giving word to someone each day this week.
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The reality is there has never been a more false word ever said. And as a matter of fact, I think words are way more true and more damaging than any broken arm ever could be. Because see, when you break your arm, you can go to the urgent care, you can go to the ER, they'll take an x-ray, they'll take an MRI, and really quickly they can get a full picture of the damage that has been done, where the break is, how significant it is, what it's going to take to fix it. They will splint it, they'll put you in a cast, they'll put you in a sling, and in most cases, four, five, six, eight weeks at the most, you're pretty much back to normal. But when it comes to the damage that happens with words, sometimes it takes us years to even realize there's damage that's been done, let alone heal from it." (57 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The tongue has directional power. Maybe I'll say it this way: You show me your words and I'll show you your future. Because if you're constantly saying, 'Man, I don't think I'm ever going to make it,' guess what? You probably won't. It's sort of like when you go to buy a new car. You buy a new car and then all of a sudden you start seeing that car everywhere. So what you talk about is indicative of what you're focusing on, and what you focus on, you'll find. So your words matter, and they matter a lot." (30 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "If there's anybody in culture that should understand how to properly and appropriately use our words, it should be us as Christ followers. Because see, we believe we were made in the image of God that spoke the world into existence. And if we're made in his image, maybe our words are powerful too. And so in a world that is divided, let's use our words to unite. Let's use our words to build up." (28 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "Encouragement is literally the act of putting courage in someone else. And when you apply that to the directional power of the tongue, your encouragement might be the exact thing someone needs to hear to keep going, to keep moving forward, to keep trying, to keep pursuing Jesus, to keep showing up for their families." (19 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The words you speak over yourself matter a whole lot. And I remember that when I learned this first hand. Because you see, a lot of us understand the power of words when it comes to other people. We know, 'Hey, I should be encouraging. I should never be overtly mean to other people. I should never be rude.' But I also think there's probably a lot of us that speak to ourselves and speak about ourselves in ways we would never dare speak about somebody else." (28 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for Members
1. "And so very quickly I ended my horsing around career and got off the horse. And once my adrenaline came back down to a reasonable level, it actually was kind of fascinating. Once I was off the horse, she showed me like, 'Hey, literally we control horses with just this little thing in their mouth.' And it's actually really fascinating that children can control gigantic horses by simply controlling where their mouth goes. James is telling us that your mouth works the same way. The words that you say matter. The words you say about yourself will affect who you are becoming." (40 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "And so if our words can make us a bull or an ox, maybe you haven't thought about it this way, but this is a little joke I thought of that I think you'll enjoy. This is how you want to remember it: Your tongue is some bull stuff. Your tongue is some bull stuff. You can be a bull in a china shop, or you can be an ox. And I don't know about you, but I want to be an ox." (29 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "And so today, I've got kind of two thoughts and then two tips at the end. And so our first thought when thinking about the power of words is this, and maybe you'll write this down: The tongue has directional power. Holy smokes, if you're watching online, just so you know, I'm pretty sure like 30 planes just flew over the building. The tongue has directional power. Maybe I'll say it this way: You show me your words and I'll show you your future. Because if you're constantly saying, 'Man, I don't think I'm ever going to make it,' guess what? You probably won't." (35 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "And so I did. And so I want to show you the list that I came up with. I know I've shared this with our church before, but I want to share it with you again. This note I made in my phone back in 2019, titled 'This is me.' Can I tell you, I still go back to this list all the time. There were months and months where every single morning I said this. But now, when I feel my sense of self starting to wane, when I feel my confidence start to get lower, every time I'm asked to present and I start worrying more about what you're going to think of me than what God has for me to say, I come back to this list." (37 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And so we started a new tradition that night, and we have done it ever since. We did it last night. I said, 'Buddy, man, the words that you say matter a whole lot. And I know that doesn't really make sense right now when you're three, but maybe someday it'll make more sense. But I want you to do something with me, and it's gonna feel a little bit weird. It's gonna feel a little awkward, but I promise that it's gonna help you.' And so he said, 'Okay.' I said, 'Alright, Milo, I want you to put your hand on your heart.' He did. And I said, 'Okay, like I said, the words you say matter a whole lot. And so now I want you to say out loud, "I am a good boy."' And he, like so many of us when encouraged to speak positively about himself, wouldn't open his mouth." (55 seconds)(Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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