CTK North Bay
Trigger Words
Archived – May 14, 2023
Main Scripture Reference(s)
James 3:2-12

Trigger Words

May 14, 2023 / Dan McEvoy / James 3:2-12

Matthew 12:34b (NIV); Proverbs 18:21 (NIV)

Today’s Truth: If you want to change your life, you need to change your words.

Speak when you are angry and you will make the best speech you will ever regret.”
– Ambrose Bierce

James 3:2-5 (NLT); Proverbs 12:18 (NIV); Proverbs 15:4 (NIV); James 3:6–8 (NIV)

Tongue Training Tips:

⇒ If it could be harmful, it.

Ephesians 4:29 (NIV)

⇒ If it could be helpful, it.

Proverbs 16:24 (NIV); 1 Thessalonians 5:11 (NIV); 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV)

When we recognize our unsurprising fallenness and keep our eyes joyfully open for the glorious exceptions, we’re much less offendable. Why? Because that’s the thing about gratitude and anger: they can’t coexist. It’s one or the other. One drains the very life from you. The other fills your life with wonder. Choose wisely.”
– Brant Hansen, Unoffendable: How Just One Change Can Make All of Life Better

⇒ If it is in you, it.

Luke 6:45 (ESV)

Question: What is your heart speaking to you today?


 

Theme: Say what?!

Share Together

When have you had an “insert foot in mouth” moment that you wish you could take back? What was the result?

Reflect Together

What impacted you most from Sunday’s Message and has led to action steps you are taking this week?

Read and Discuss Together: 

James 3:2-12

  • The writer of James makes it clear that the tongue (our words) have power. In word pictures is the tongue described and which metaphors are most relatable to you and why?
  • What is the commonality in each of the descriptions? What are the negative repressions when the tongue is left unchecked? Examples?
  • How is it possible for human beings to both curse others and praise God? What does this say about the tongue? About human nature? About hope for change?
  • In what ways have you personally witnessed the destructive power of words? How have you experienced the positive impact of uplifting and encouraging speech?
  • In verse 10, James highlights the inconsistency of using our tongues to praise God while also using them to curse others. Why do you think he addresses this contradiction? How does it challenge us in our own speech and attitudes?
  • James compares the tongue to a fountain that produces either fresh water or bitter water. How can we ensure that our words consistently bring life and blessing to those around us?
  • What is the greatest challenge you face such as in a relationship, environment, or current situation you need help in controlling your words that you need prayer?
Pray Together:

Take time to share with your spiritual community the good things God is doing in your life, as well as the prayer requests you have.

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