Current Series: RecklessTitle: “Reckless Words”
The Word: Ephesians 4:29-31, Proverbs 18:21, Proverbs 4:24,
Main Thought: Our words can hurt or bring life to others.
Message Explanation: Words are powerful. We can treat our words as if once they are said immediately evaporate into thin air. Even though words are invisible, they leave a LASTING MARK. How many of you remember hurtful words 1, 5, 10 years ago?
We are in a new series about being reckless for Christ. Student years are not a vacation from responsibility. I think we lower expectations for every student in this generation. Instead of being reckless for selfish reasons, we should be reckless in our passion FOR God. Student years are the launching pad for God’s mission for your life!
Series verse: "Don’t let anyone think less of you because you are young. Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." 1 Timothy 4:12.
“Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing.” Proverbs 12:18. Each person speaks 18-25 thousand words per day. We post Facebook statuses, tweets, instagram, and text messages. You might have heard this statement before, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." We all know words are more powerful than sticks or stones.
Our words are either DIRECTED to giving life or giving pain to others.
Ephesians 4:29-31: Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. And do not bring sorrow to God’s Holy Spirit by the way you live. Remember, he has identified you as his own, guaranteeing that you will be saved on the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.
How do we give LIFE by our words?
1. Stop and think before you speak (v. 30-31)
Does what I'm about to say give life or hurt?
Proverbs 21:23 says “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.
2. Start giving kindness and compassion with words. (v. 32a) "Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted…"
What would happen if kindness and compassion were give to one another? Jesus set this example in His life. This is the new life in Christ we have through His power in our lives. Jesus always responded with kindness towards others.
Our words are a tattle tale on our heart. Words can give another person the AIR to become who God wants them to become.
3. Give life by forgiving others. (v. 32b)
Even though people don’t always seem to deserve forgiveness, we should forgive because Jesus has forgiven us. It is what we call bitterness. Bitterness is drinking poison, hoping someone else dies! If we give into the bitterness we are living reckless. Notice what Paul says in Ephesians 4:32:"...forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you."
Proverbs 18:21: "Those who love to talk will experience the consequences, for the tongue can kill or nourish life."
Matthew 12:36: “You must give an account on judgment day for every idle word you speak.” We are held accountable for our words.
