LifeGroup Notes

BIG IDEA
Growing up, you may have heard the old adage, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” While this old proverb was intended to be a retort to bullying, taunts, and insults, we know that it is far from true. In fact, it is usually the opposite that is true. While broken bones can hurt terribly for a time, they can be reset and eventually heal. Words, however, can make a lasting impression. Words that are muttered thoughtlessly by one person can be etched forever in the memory of the one receiving them. Even the words that we know are really not true can find their way back into our minds when we find ourselves in difficult, trying times.

As followers of Christ, we must remember that the words we say DO matter, even when we are only joking. We must be careful to speak words that encourage and uplift, rather than wound and tear down. Even the manner in which we speak, our tone and our expression, can either wound deeply or provide strength and healing to others. It is our responsibility to make sure that the words we speak give life to those around us. This week, we will look at the importance of our words and the power that they carry.

Passages we’ll review:
Matthew 12:33-37; Philippians 4:8; James 3:6-10; Proverbs 18:20-21; Psalm 19:14

OPENING
What stood out to you from the message this week? What led you to really think? Did anything challenge you? Have you ever had to share something that you really loved, something that had immense value to you?

Think of a time when someone spoke words to you (good or bad) that created a lasting memory for you. Why did their words have such an impact?

In what kind of situation is it most difficult for you to “keep your mouth shut?” Why?

READ

Read Matthew 12:33-37

Is it possible to hide what is in your heart for the long term? Can you always speak good things if your heart is full of bitterness?

What careless or idle words do we speak? What about words spoken in anger?

Why are our actions more important than our words?

According to Philippians 4:8, how can we fill our hearts with things that will produce good fruit?

Read James 3:6-10

Have you ever made statements that contradict each other? Think about the ways the tongue reflects our spiritual growth. What shows immaturity or lack of growth? What reflects positive growth in Christ?

Why is it so easy to forget the power that comes with the words we say? How do we change that?

Read Proverbs 18:20-21

How can rumors, gossip, and slander damage lives?

Have you ever had words spoken to you that tore you down? How long did it take you to heal and forget?

Have you ever experienced a time where you received “life-giving” words? What happened as a result?

Our words can have a lasting impact on others. When we use wise, life-giving words, we can encourage and uplift others. When we use evil, careless words, we will tear others down. We must remember that there are consequences for the words we speak! —Editor’s Note

DIGGING DEEPER

Read Psalm 19:14

Would you change the way you live if you knew that your every word and thought would be examined by God first? Explain.

We must remember that God does indeed know every word before we speak it as well as every thought that we have. Nothing is hidden from Him! —Editor’s Note

How can the words of your mouth and the meditation of your heart change your relationship to God and others?

“Sticks and stones may break bones, but words can shatter souls. Words matter. Choose wisely.” (Unknown) —Editor’s Note

LET’S PRAY

Consider the following as you pray together:

1. When you reflect on your own life, what do your words reveal about the condition of your heart? Allow God to reveal to you the fruit of your words - both the words that bring death and the words that bring life. Knowing how powerful words can be, how will you live differently this week?
   

2. Think of the times in which you are most likely to lose control of your tongue. Pray that God would help you to be aware of those times and help you to respond in a way that glorifies Him.
   

3. If you don’t already know it, commit Psalm 19:14 to memory. Reflect on it as you go through each day. Pray for opportunities this week to use your words to build others up and share the Good News of Christ with others!