Main Thought: Words reflect what is in our heart.

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?

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I am thankful for the truth of God's Word that molds and shapes us into Christ-likeness. Is there a passage of scripture that has led you to life-change in Christ?

I would say for a while now I have two different passages that have been my life verses.

The first passage is James 1:19-20.

"Know this, my beloved brothers: let every personbe quick to hear,slow to speak,slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God."

God continues to show me that being a good listener reveals a Christ-like heart. Many times I am caught up with a task and miss the importance of stopping and actively listening to others. God gave us two ears and one mouth for a reason! This verse has revolutionized how I deal with people, conflict, and relationships. It is a reminder to me every day that living in humility and grace produces a life that points others to Jesus.

Secondly, Philippians 3:7-8 is a life verse for me.

"Butwhatever gain I had,I counted as loss for the sake of Christ. Indeed, I count everything as loss because ofthe surpassing worth ofknowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake Ihave suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ."

My life in ministry stems from this verse. The most important aspect of life is fulfilling God's specific call upon a person's life. Life is not about fame, popularity or success, but it is finding worth in serving Jesus Christ over all else. I'm reminded often of His grace that set me free from my sin and self and has called me His child. What an honor it is to serve Jesus above all else in life. There is no greater aspect of life than following after Christ.

What is your life verse? How has it impacted your life?