Salutations! Speech sorcerers!
Welcome back to our magical journey through the book of James. Today, we’re going to learn about something that’s as powerful as a superhero and as subtle as a whisper: the enchanting influence of words. So, dust off your sorcerer’s hat, and crack open the book!
James kicks off chapter 3 with a bit of a reality zap: “Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, for you know that we who teach will be judged with greater strictness.” (James 3:1). Now, don’t let the ‘judged with greater strictness’ part spook you off. This isn’t just about becoming a teacher, but about the power and responsibility of our words.
He continues, “For we all stumble in many ways. And if anyone does not stumble in what he says, he is a perfect man, able also to bridle his whole body.” (James 3:2). In other words, if you’ve mastered your words, you’re pretty much a superhero. But let’s be real, we’re all more like stumbling apprentices than flawless wizards, right?
So, what’s the big deal about our words? Well, our words have the power to build up or tear down, to encourage or discourage, to heal or to hurt. They can be a source of life or a source of destruction. And that’s why it’s so important for us to learn how to use our words wisely. With great power comes great responsibility, right?
But don’t worry, this isn’t about taking a vow of silence. It’s about learning to use our words in a way that reflects the love and grace of Jesus. It’s about speaking truth in love, encouraging one another, and using our words to build up rather than tear down.
So, fellow speech sorcerers, are you ready to harness the magic of the tongue? Are you ready to use your words to make a positive impact in the world? Let’s do this!
How can you use your words to build up rather than tear down today?
Happy Monday Everyone! What a great reminder. I have to confess at times when I feel burnt out in certain areas of my life I can run out of patience, and can start having uncaring thoughts of people. Thank you for this great reminder. I pray oh God that I can start my day today with wisdom, love, understanding, compassion, and a positive attitude, so that I may be encouraging, understanding, and kind to those around me. I pray that I would be quick to listen slow to speak. Have a great day everyone🙏🏻💕
Today, to use my words to build someone up, I can pray for someone or be encouraging in my everyday conversation with my friends and family members. When I pray, it shifts my heart and attitude towards them, resulting in wanting to speak in a matter that builds them up. Also, we never know the impact our everyday conversations can have on those around us. So, offering up a word of encouragement or saying something kind can go a long way and glorify God.
Words can be used to build up rather than tear down by changing our own internal attitude. We tend to migrate toward negativity and this was very apparent during the opening question of the sermon yesterday when it was asked what was one positive or negative thing that was said to us. I could remember so many negative things but struggled to remember something positive. I think we need to bias ourselves toward positivity and try to be more constructive and encouraging in our words.
(from Maury)
Happy Monday guys… Real quick in my eyes I really like to put my self in the other man’s shoes… And most of all it pays to be honest with the world with out being disrespectful… Been there done that, however it’s very difficult too see a individual who is abusive towards kids or women in there shoes it’s never been me and I can’t be lying I have no love for those guys… Does not mean I’m going to attack them etc… I’m just not there yet…
I can practice using my words to build up rather than tear down at work. Throughout a day, I may encounter people who are rude or annoying to talk to. It’s natural to feel frustrated or angry in such situations. However, I make an effort to be patient and understand their circumstance. I try to assist them to meet their needs.