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 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
