Main Point: Wise people recognize the power of words and avoid causing or harboring hurt.
Takeaway: Consider the source of hurtful words and respond according to God’s Word.

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DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

1. What are some hurtful words that you remember, recent and not-so-recent? How did your stance, situationally and/or spiritually, affect how you received those words?

1. The words we say to ourselves can have a powerful effect on our everyday lives and relationships. In what ways could your self-talk be improved? What are some strategies for doing so? 

1. Proverbs 11:9 indicates that words can be destructive, “but through knowledge the righteous escape.” What kind of knowledge is needed to escape the effects of hurtful words?

1. Read Hebrews 12:1-3. This passage describes Jesus as the ultimate example of someone who endured hurtful words and actions for a higher purpose. How can Jesus’ perseverance inspire us to rise above difficult circumstances?

Table Discussion Question — What category of hurtful words offends you most: Insults? Gossip? Lying? How about silence, “the cold shoulder”? Why do you consider that form of hurtful communication so troubling? How can you respond in a godly way next time you encounter it?