Sermon Title: Words That Build

James 3:1–10

1. WHAT WORDS ARE YOU SPEAKING TO YOURSELF?

• Your internal dialogue shapes how you see God, others, and yourself.
• Proverbs 4:23

• Sometimes the most dangerous voice isn’t someone else’s—it’s your own when it’s out of alignment with God. 

2. WHOSE WORDS ARE YOU LETTING SPEAK INTO YOUR LIFE?

• Look at their life…compare their lives to what Christ says a life should be. Is there fruit? Do I want my life to look like theirs?

3. WHAT WORDS ARE WE SPEAKING OVER OTHERS?

• The mark of true spiritual maturity is being able to bridle your tongue. 

Common ways we sin with our words:

• Lying, deceit, gossip, slander
• Complaining, grumbling, flattery, boasting
• Prideful speech, harsh and angry words
• Blasphemy, taking the Lord’s name in vain, profanity
• False teaching

The Call for Consistency

• As disciples, we need to be people of integrity and consistency.
• Your words should reflect your faith, no matter who you're around.

Words in the Context of Relationships

• Family can test and try us like no other, but it’s also where words matter most.

Spouses

• Proverbs 14:1

• James 4:1-2

• Proverbs 21:9
• Proverbs 27:15
• You have the power to breathe life or drain it from your marriage—your words are the key.

Parents

• Ephesians 4:29
• Children become the words spoken over them.
• Your words help shape their identity, worldview, and faith.

Grandparents

• Psalm 145:4
• Tell the faith stories your family will hold onto when life doesn’t make sense.

Words That Tear Down vs. Words That Build

• James 3:6
• I can use my mouth to bring about Satan’s purposes in people that I love and care most about. I can invite Satan directly into my home and family by the way I use my words. 

VI. The Heart Behind Our Words

• Luke 6:45
• No man can tame the heart.
• If we want to change our words, we must let God change our hearts. So when we get squeezed, which we will, the right stuff comes out.
• We need the Holy Spirit reigning in our hearts and in our homes.

John 14:26