High School Week 3: My Words
The Main Thing:
God’s Word changes what I say.
Start Talking (Conversation Starter):
If every word you said, texted, or posted yesterday was played out loud for everyone in this room, which part would you be most nervous about?
Explore the Scripture:
Read James 3:3-10 and Proverbs 18:21 together. Spend some time talking about the passages.
What words, phrases, or actions stand out?
What questions do these passages raise?
What’s God showing you about the passages?
What do these passages reveal about Jesus or people?
Now read Ephesians 4:29 and Proverbs 12:18. How do these passages add to what you already read?
Unpack It:
Discuss what you read and what you heard.
James compares our words to a bit, a rudder, and a fire. What do those pictures teach us about the influence our words can have?
Why can it be easier to gossip, complain, lie, or tear someone down than to use our words for good?
Which verses challenge or encourage you most? What about the message challenged or encouraged you?
Own It:
Make the Scripture personal.
How does the way you talk change depending on who you’re around? What might that reveal about what’s influencing your words?
Think about what you say, text, post, comment, and send. Where could your words be building people up more than they are right now?
How’s God calling you to apply what you read or what you heard?
Live It:
Take action to apply what you learned.
This week, use your words on purpose instead of simply reacting in the moment. Do at least one of the following!
Encourage someone specifically instead of keeping the thought to yourself.
Refuse to participate when a conversation turns into gossip.
Apologize for something you’ve said that hurt someone.
Pause before you post, text, or send something and ask whether your words reflect Jesus.
Prayer:
End your meeting by inviting someone to pray for God to help the group use their words to bring truth, encouragement, and life to others.