We’re back in our Walk This Way series for this Sunday message. Open your Bible to James 3 and join Pastor Greg Laurie as he goes over the power of our words. Get good encouragement from this message!

Notes

There is power in what we say to others.

Words matter, especially words of encouragement.

More people have died by words than any weapon of man ever devised.

The tongue is the most destructive weapon on the face of the earth.

1. What you say reveals who you are.

The control of the tongue is a barometer of Christian maturity.

The first sin committed after the fall was a sin of the tongue (Genesis 3:12).

2. We need to control what we say. 

James is telling us that the uncontrolled tongue has a direct pipeline to Hell.

3. Our words used right can do so much good.

4. Our words used wrong can do so much damage. 

Ways our words hurt others:

1. Gossip and backbiting (Proverbs 20:19).

Gossip is like junk food—you know it is bad, but you eat it anyway.

Ways our words hurt others:

2. Innuendo.

Ways our words hurt others:

3. Misuse of our words in flattery.

Gossip is saying behind a person’s back what you would never say to their face.

Flattery is saying to a person’s face what you would never say behind their back.

1. Controlling your words is a sign of spiritual maturity. 

T – Is it true?

H – Will it help?

I – Is it inspiring?

N – Is it necessary?

K – Is it kind?

2. The greatest use of our words is to proclaim God’s Word.  

When you speak for God, take it very seriously!

3. Use your words to build up, not tear down.

4. Use your words to praise God, because this is the highest and greatest use of our tongue.

It’s not enough to think it; you need to say it out loud!

5. Use your words to preach the gospel, because this is God’s primary way of reaching nonbelievers.

6. Use your words to confess your sins.

You can think it, but you need to say it out loud … I have sinned.

The best use of our words:

1. Build up, not tear down; encourage, not discourage.
2. Praise God.
3. Proclaim the gospel.
4. Confess your sins.

Scripture Referenced

Proverbs 18:21

Matthew 12:36–37

Proverbs 26:22

Proverbs 6:23–24

1 Timothy 3:1

1 Peter 4:11

Ephesians 5:19 

Hebrews 13:15 

Psalm 34:1

Daniel 9:4–5

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