Teaching series: Doin Work
Main Thought: Words reflect what is in our heart.
Length of service: 60 minutes. We combined our group in one for a unified worship experience. We have small groups immediately after the teaching and response.
Messsage Explanation: James: 3:2-10. When God created man, he gave us two eyes, two ears, two nostrils and one mouth. Our words reflect what is in our heart Matthew 12:34 “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.” Our words can either GIVE life or TAKE life away from others. Words have the power to direct our lives (v. 3-5). Words have power to destroy (v. 6-7). We can assassinate others with our words. “Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble" Proverbs 21:23.
Ephesians 4:29: “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.”
Here are some action steps to WATCH OUR WORDS
1. Read and apply Scripture (Proverbs a day, James)
2. Think First - remember the acronym THINK, try to ask these 5 questions before you speak:
Is it True? Remember this rule about gossip: “The more interesting it is, the more likely it is to be false.”
Is it Helpful? Will your words help bring about a solution to a problem?
Is it Inspiring? Will your words build up someone?
Is it Necessary? Do we have to say anything at all?
Is it Kind? Are your words based on a desire to help?
3. Talk Less. Your chances of blowing it with your words are directly proportional to the amount of time you spend with your mouth open. Listen to the words you say.
4. Build Others Up - Proverbs 12:25 says, “An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up.” Do your words destroy others or give life?
Element of fun: In honor of the 4th of July, we had a hotdog eating contest! Students had 2 minutes to eat as many as possible! I showed a clip to illustrate how we lose control of our tongue at the beginning of the message!
Music Set: We are the Free, Your Love Never Fails, Forever Reign, The Church (closing)
Favorite Moment: Sensing the excitement of the students and seeing the worship! We are pumped to head out on the mission trip in one week to Atlanta!
What's Next: We are off the next week to prepare for the mission trip to Urban Serve in downtown Atlanta!