Student Handout: “Week 2: Toxic Speech”

Scripture: James 3:3-12 (NLT)

Sermon Title: “Toxic Speech”

Big Idea: The importance of using words to communicate love, especially during holidays.

Main Teaching

Our Words Hold Power

Scriptures: Hebrews 11:3 (NKJV & NLT); Proverbs 18:21.
Illustration: The response evoked by different words.
Life Example: The impact of words in personal experiences.

Put a Leash on Your Lips

Challenge of controlling the tongue as highlighted in James 3:3-6.
Practical wisdom from Proverbs on using words to honor others.

What Does The Bible Say About Our Words?

Proverbs 18:21: “The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences.”
James 3:5: “In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire.”
Ephesians 4:29: “Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.”
Proverbs 15:4: “Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.”
Proverbs 12:18: “Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.”
Matthew 12:36: “And I tell you this, you must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.”
Proverbs 16:24: “Kind words are like honey—sweet to the soul and healthy for the body.”
Colossians 4:6: “Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone.”
Proverbs 25:11: “Timely advice is lovely, like golden apples in a silver basket.”
Psalm 19:14: “May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer.”
Proverbs 15:1: “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
James 1:26: “If anyone among you thinks he is religious, and does not bridle his tongue but deceives his own heart, this one’s religion is useless.”
Proverbs 18:4: “The words of a man’s mouth are deep waters; the wellspring of wisdom is a flowing brook.”
Proverbs 21:23: “Whoever guards his mouth and tongue keeps his soul from troubles.”
Psalm 141:3: “Set a guard, O Lord, over my mouth; keep watch over the door of my lips.”
Ephesians 4:15: “But, speaking the truth in love, may grow up in all things into Him who is the head—Christ.”
Proverbs 16:23: “The heart of the wise teaches his mouth, and adds learning to his lips.”
Proverbs 10:19: “In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, but he who restrains his lips is wise.”
Proverbs 15:23: “A man has joy by the answer of his mouth, and a word spoken in due
season, how good it is!”
Proverbs 11:9: “The hypocrite with his mouth destroys his neighbor, but through knowledge the righteous will be delivered.”

Strategies for controlling our words:
1. Does it honor God?

Does it honor the person?

Will I regret saying this?

We Speak from Your Heart
Luke 6:45: The reflection of our hearts in our words.

*What Should I Do Next? *

Reflect: The potential to control our tongues and speak life.

Feel: Awareness of the power in words.

Act: Choose to speak positively to someone this week.

Challenge: Using words to reflect the love of Christ.

Reflection Question:

“How can I use my words this week to positively impact someone’s life?”