Navigating Conversations
What kind of environment are your words creating? Are you aware that you can create with your words? The words we use may seem small, but they carry enormous influence. They can encourage or criticize, heal or wound, bring life or slowly create patterns that last for generations. In Week 3 of NAVIGATE, we explore James 3:5–10 and discover why James compares the tongue to a small fire capable of setting an entire forest ablaze. Our words don’t simply reveal what’s happening inside of us. Over time, they help create the culture of our homes, shape the people around us, and influence the next generation.
Some of the words coming out of our mouths today were spoken into us years ago. But maturity isn’t becoming our parents, and it isn’t simply becoming the opposite of them. Maturity is becoming like Jesus.
James 3:5-10
Discussion topics
- HEAD – What did Jesus say to you through the Word?
- Read James 3:5-10 together. James compares the tongue to a small fire capable of burning an entire forest. Why do you think he chose such an extreme picture to describe our words?
- James says the tongue can affect the “whole course” of someone’s life. What are some ways you’ve seen a few words have an impact far beyond the moment in which they were spoken?
- Sunday’s message said: “Your words don’t just express your world. They create it.” What do you think that means? In what ways can repeated language actually create a culture in a marriage, family, workplace, or friendship?
- HEART – How did it make you feel?
- What language from the home you grew up in have you carried into your life today? Are there things you’ve repeated? Are there things you’ve intentionally rebelled against?
- Sunday we said: Maturity isn’t becoming your parents. Maturity isn’t becoming the opposite of your parents. Maturity is becoming like Jesus. Is there an area of your communication where you’ve been defined more by what you experienced growing up than by how Jesus would have you respond?
- If someone followed you around for a week and only listened to your words, what would they say is happening beneath the surface of your life? Stress? Gratitude? Anger? Peace? Fear? Grace? Criticism? Encouragement?
- HANDS – What are you going to do with it?
- Finish this sentence: I want __________ to become part of the language of my home. Encouragement? Gratitude? Grace? Forgiveness? Honor? Prayer? “I’m sorry”? “I’m proud of you”? “I love you”?
- What’s one phrase or pattern of communication you need to intentionally stop using?
- Family Month Check-In
- Did anyone use the Family Take-Home Kit this week?
- What was the funniest or most memorable part?
- What conversation happened at home because of it?
- Did your kids teach you anything from Sunday’s lesson?
Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you find Jesus in every moment and then discover what’s next
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