Watch Your Words- Week 3

Countdown Video

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2 Corinthians 9:7–8 (NKJV)

7. So let each one give as he purposes in his heart, not grudgingly or of necessity; for God loves a cheerful giver.

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Scripture Reading by Lady Pepper

Thank you Lady Pepper for the announcements and the reading of God’s Word.

Before we get into the passage today, I have something very important to say’

Last month we did a series entitled what are you chasing?

We talked about God's money.

In that series we found that because we are God's disciples following the Lord Jesus Christ, we recognize that not only that everything we have comes from God, but that it still belongs to God, and we are just simply stewards of his resources .

Also in the series, we learned that given isn't just a financial practice, it is a discipleship principal.

I would like to challenge those of you that are regularly being served, shaped, or strengthen through the church's ministry.

I would like to encourage you to make giving here part of your discipleship.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:21 - "where your treasure is, there your heart will be also:

I believe that there is something that happens in our spiritual growth when our hearts become deeply connected to the community were we worship, serve, grow, and are discipled.

And one of the ways that we cultivate that connection is through financial partnership.

When you give to Faith Vision Christian Ministries, you're not just simply funding a church budget.

Your helping people that need Jesus, and as we grow as disciples, we learn to care for one another, and we learn to serve our community, and we also learn to take this gospel all around the world.

Giving is one of the ways that we say to the Lord that we believe in this ministry, and what you're doing here at Faith Vision Christian Ministries

I’m hoping that all of you are invested, in what God is doing here

Not just when we feel like it

Not just when a particular Message captures our attention

Not just when there happens to be extra money at the end of the month

But that we will develop a regular pattern of putting God first through our giving, discovering the joy of seeing our gifts multiplied to bless others, not only within our church but throughout our communities and around the world.

I'd like to invite you to make giving to Faith Vision a part of your monthly budget.

I'm praying that all of you, who are working in God’s Kingdom, who considers Faith Vision a partner, and being used in these last days to spread the gosple of Jesus Christ to the ends of the earth, will begin to give regularly.

Now some of you may feel that you have very little to give.

That's okay.

Start somewhere.

Even five dollars for $10 from each paycheck, given consistently, can become a step of faith and a meaningful act of worship and trust before God and a sign that you are invested in what God is doing here at Faith vision.

And if you all ready give, perhaps this is an opportunity to prayerfully consider whether God is asking you to increase your level of generosity and financial partnership.

If you would like to respond to this invitation, you can set up a reoccurring gift online.

Just like pepper and I, when we look at my bank statements and see all the things that are automatically paid each month, the one item that consistently makes us happy is what is going to Faith vision Christian ministries.

Here is a link to our online giving platform.

As more of us grow as disciples and practicing stewardship, I believe God will continue to deepen our trust in him and multiply our impact together.

Every gift becomes a part of a larger story of lives being changed by Jesus, in our church, throughout our communities, and around the world.

Thank you for letting me take care of the business before we get started today.

Welcome! to everyone especially those who are joining us for the first time.

My name is Pastor Doc, and I will be sharing the Word of God with you today.

Have your Bibles Ready and take notes

Sermon Bumper Video - Hidden Treasure

Title of the Series

Words Matter

Title of the message this Morning

Watch Your Words - Week 3

Main idea:

Based on James 3:1-12, this sermon emphasizes the immense power of our words to direct our lives, destroy relationships, and reveal the condition of our hearts.

By reflecting on the biblical imagery of the tongue as a rudder, a fire, and a spring, we are called to be intentional with our speech, using our words to uplift and guide others toward Christ.

We are challenged to seek healing where words have caused harm and to align our hearts with God’s will, so that our words reflect His love, truth, and grace throughout the week.

Prayer:

“Lord, let our words reflect your goodness, mercy, and kindness to the world around us and help us to heal and/or forgive others from the times when words have harmed or offended us.”

Scripture: James 3:1-12, Psalm 19:14

(All scripture is taken from the NIV unless otherwise noted)

Introduction

Welcome back everyone!

Today we’re tackling an amazing topic together as we continue in our series… WORDS MATTER…

Specifically, we’ll be talking about the place where we share most of our words with others… The MOUTH.

Words impact everyone, they’re everywhere, and even though they’re small - they are incredibly powerful.

Words are powerful because they have the ability to shape thoughts, influence emotions, and drive actions.

They can build up or tear down, create understanding or sow confusion, and foster connection or division.

Through words, we communicate our deepest beliefs, intentions, and feelings, shaping the way we interact with others and the world around us.

Whether spoken or written, words carry the potential to inspire change, heal wounds, and transform lives, making them one of the most potent tools we possess.

In fact, The Bible has a lot to say about the tongue and the words we speak, and today we’ll be looking specifically at James 3:1-12, where James offers a strong warning about the potential of our words to direct, destroy, and reveal the condition of our hearts.

As we tackle this passage, I hope we'll see just how crucial it is to watch our words.

First, we'll discover how our words have the power to steer the course of our lives and others' lives.

Then, we'll confront the reality of how destructive words can be, capable of causing deep harm and hurt.

Finally, we'll consider how the words we speak reflect what's truly in our hearts, revealing our inner spiritual state.

My prayer is that as we go through this message, we will all be challenged to examine our speech and seek God's help in using our words to reflect His love, grace, and truth to the world around us.

Main Teaching

Read James 3:1-12

James 3:1-4

James 3:5-8

James 3:9-12

Point 1: The Tongue's Power to Direct (James 3:3-5a)

James begins this passage by illustrating the tongue's power with two vivid examples—a bit in a horse's mouth and a rudder on a ship.

Though small, both the bit and the rudder have the ability to control and direct something much larger.

In the same way, our tongues, though small, have the power to steer the course of our lives and the lives of those around us.

The words we speak can set the direction of our relationships, our personal growth, and even our spiritual journey.

Just as a slight movement of the rudder can change a ship's entire course, a single word can influence the trajectory of a person's life, for better or worse.

Pastor -

Can you share a funny or not-so-funny story about a time your words changed the direction of your life?

This power to direct should not be taken lightly.

We often underestimate the impact of our words, thinking that what we say in the moment may not have lasting consequences.

However, Scripture reminds us that words have the power to influence decisions, shape perceptions, and alter the future.

As followers of Christ, we are called to use our words intentionally, guiding others toward truth, love, and righteousness.

Whether it’s encouraging someone in their faith, speaking wisdom into a difficult situation, or simply offering a kind word, our speech has the potential to lead others closer to God or, conversely, away from Him.

We must ask ourselves: Are we using our words to guide others in the right direction, or are we carelessly steering them off course?

Point 2: The Tongue's Power to Destroy (James 3:5b-8)

James continues by painting a sobering picture of the tongue’s potential for destruction.

He compares it to a small spark that can set an entire forest on fire, illustrating how something as seemingly insignificant as a word can unleash devastating consequences.

The tongue is described as a "world of evil" capable of corrupting the whole body, setting the course of one's life on fire, and being itself "set on fire by hell."

This imagery underscores the destructive power of words.

In moments of anger, frustration, or carelessness, we can speak words that inflict deep wounds, damage relationships, and cause lasting pain.

Pastor -

Can you share a personal or well-known cultural example of the destructive nature of words?

In James 3:5-6, the Bible compares the tongue to a small spark that can ignite a great forest fire.

This reflects how our words wield immense power to either uplift or destroy.

I recall a well-known incident where a public figure made a careless remark that, despite being unintentional, led to widespread backlash and damaged reputations.

Such examples remind us to be mindful of our speech, for we may not realize how deeply our words can cut.

One cultural point that comes to mind is the way politics has weaponized words to tear down and destroy.

The destructive potential of the tongue is not limited to the harm it causes others; it also reflects the inner corruption of the one who speaks.

James makes it clear that the tongue is restless and full of deadly poison, highlighting how difficult it is to tame.

This should lead us to a deep sense of humility and caution.

Every word we speak carries weight, and once spoken, words cannot be taken back.

The pain caused by harsh, critical, or deceitful words can linger for years, impacting not only the one who hears them but also the one who speaks them.

This calls us to repentance and a renewed commitment to use our words wisely, striving to speak in ways that heal and build up rather than destroy.

Point 3: The Tongue's Power to Reveal

(James 3:9-12)

In the final section of this passage, James challenges us to consider what our words reveal about the state of our own hearts.

He points out the inconsistency of using the same tongue to praise God and curse those made in His image.

This contradiction is likened to a spring that produces both fresh and saltwater or a fig tree that bears olives.

Such things should not be possible, and yet, in our fallen nature, we often find ourselves speaking both blessings and curses.

This duality in our speech reveals a deeper issue—our words are a reflection of what is truly in our hearts.

The inconsistency James highlights serves as a call to self-examination.

What do our words say about us?

If our speech is filled with negativity, criticism, or deceit, it indicates that our hearts are not fully aligned with God’s will.

Luke 6:45 says,

“For from the overflow of the heart his mouth speaks.”

On the other hand, if our words are kind, truthful, and uplifting, they reflect a heart that is being transformed by the Holy Spirit.

We cannot produce good fruit from a bad tree, and we cannot consistently speak good words from a corrupt heart.

Therefore, the transformation of our speech must begin with the transformation of our hearts.

We must seek God’s help in renewing our minds and hearts so that our words naturally flow from a place of love, truth, and grace.

Conclusion

As we come to the end of our time together, I want to encourage us all to reflect deeply on the heart of today’s message.

The power of our words is immense—our tongues can direct the course of lives, destroy relationships, and reveal the true condition of our hearts.

James’ words challenge us not just to hear this truth but to actively apply it in our daily lives.

The question we need to ask ourselves as we leave here today is:

How will we use our words to glorify God and build up others this week?

First, let's commit to being intentional with our words.

Take time each day this week to pause before you speak, especially in moments of frustration or stress.

Ask yourself, "Will what I’m about to say bring life or harm?

Will it guide someone toward God or away from Him?"

By pausing to reflect, we can prevent careless words that might otherwise cause damage.

You might even consider setting a reminder on your phone or placing a sticky note somewhere visible with the words "Watch your mouth" to remind yourself of this commitment throughout the day.

Second, let's seek opportunities to speak words of encouragement and blessing.

This week, make it a point to intentionally uplift at least one person each day.

Whether it's a kind word to a family member, a note of encouragement to a coworker, or a message of appreciation to a friend, these small acts of kindness can have a profound impact.

As you do this, remember that your words have the power to steer others in the right direction.

Use that power to guide them toward hope, love, and the truth of God’s Word.

Third, if you've hurt someone with your words in the past, this week is an opportunity for healing.

Reach out to those whom you may have wounded with careless or harmful words.

Apologize sincerely and seek to make amends.

Healing begins with humility and honesty.

By taking this step, you not only help repair the damage done but also align your heart more closely with the heart of God, who calls us to be peacemakers.

Lastly, let’s focus on the condition of our hearts.

Remember, our words are a reflection of what’s inside.

Spend time in prayer and meditation on God’s Word, asking the Holy Spirit to purify your heart and mind.

Consider starting or ending your day with a simple prayer:

"Lord, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight" (Psalm 19:14).

As God transforms your heart, your words will naturally begin to reflect His love, grace, and truth more consistently.

In conclusion, as we go into the week ahead, let us be mindful of the power of our tongues.

Let's use our words to build up, encourage, and guide others toward Christ.

Let’s seek healing where there has been hurt and allow God to continue His work of transforming our hearts.

As we do so, may our speech become a living testimony to the power of God’s love at work within us.

Let’s pray together.

Salvation:

The Word of God says in: John 3:16

For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.

Romans 10:13 NKJV

For “whoever calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.”

If you’d would like to receive Jesus today, please pray this prayer with all of us:

Lord I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, and that He died On the cross for my sins and His resurrection from the dead gives me eternal life. I ask forgiveness of my sins, and I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior. Amen.

Pastor [e-mail]

Church Office: 909-922-8090

And I will send you a Bible & a Free Book on how to begin your first 21 steps with Jesus (show the book)

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Lady Pepper Please Join Me

Pepper Praise Reports

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Prayer Requests - (Pepper Read)

Let us Pray (P/P)

Praying for the 10-40 Window

The 10/40 Window is a rectangular geographic region stretching from West Africa to East Asia, between 10 and 40 degrees north of the equator.

It contains the majority of the world's unreached people groups and the poorest populations.

Prayer initiatives focus on breaking spiritual strongholds, bringing humanitarian relief, and supporting the persecuted church.

The Unreached:

Pray for the billions of individuals who have never heard the Gospel message, particularly among Frontier People Groups.

The Persecuted Church:

Intercede for local believers who face severe restrictions, imprisonment, or violence for their faith.

Humanitarian Crises:

Pray for relief from extreme poverty, human trafficking, and the oppression of women and children.

Laborers & Discipleship:

Pray for the protection of frontline missionaries, effective local church planting, and the translation of scriptures.

Pray for the United StatesI

Today, we focus our prayers for the nation on asking for unity to overcome the division, wisdom for the government leaders, and a nationwide spiritual revival.

National unity and healing: pray for reconciliation where division exists, asking that the nation learns to live together peacefully despite differences.

Government and local leaders: intercede for wisdom, godly counsel, and discernment for all elected officials (local and national) to make righteous decisions

Spiritual revival: pray for a national to return to godly values, with a focus on repentance and the desire to seek truth.

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This is Pastor Doc & Lady Pepper with:

Faith Vision Christian Ministries

Pepper Please Continue Reading

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Pastor: please continue reading

Benediction

9 With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. 10 Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. 11 Can both fresh water and salt waterflow from the same spring? 12 My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.

James 3:5-8

Have a Great Week! Goodbye!

This is Pastor Doc and Lady Pepper signing off until next time we meet. Blessings to you all!