Red Flags – Week 1
When Words Become Weapons
Not all danger signs are obvious—some are right in front of us, and others are hidden deep inside. In this series, we’ll uncover the warning signs of unhealthy relationships and the struggles within us that can sabotage God’s best for our lives. Don’t ignore the signs! Red Flags will help you recognize what’s holding you back and guide you toward the next steps God has for your relationships.
7 People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, 8 but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. James 3:7-8
9 Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. 10 And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! James 3:9-10
11 Does a spring of water bubble out with both fresh water and bitter water? 12 Does a fig tree produce olives, or a grapevine produce figs? No, and you can’t draw fresh water from a salty spring. James 3:11-12
The tongue can bring death or life; those who love to talk will reap the consequences. Proverbs 18:21
When Words Become Weapons
They Deceive
The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words. Proverbs 10:32
They Stab
Some people make cutting remarks, but the words of the wise bring healing. Proverbs 12:18
They are Full of Anger
A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare. Proverbs 15:1
They Crush the Spirit
Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15:4
They Cause Grief
Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23
Use Words to Build Hearts Not Break Them
Give Life
The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions.
Proverbs 10:11
Provide Healing
Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit. Proverbs 15:4
Encouraging
Wise words bring many benefits, and hard work brings rewards. Proverbs 12:14
Keep You from Trouble
Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble.Proverbs 21:23
How to Change Your Words
1. Start with the heart – my cussing journey
A good person produces good things from the treasury of a good heart, and an evil person produces evil things from the treasury of an evil heart. Matthew 12:35
2. Respond Slowly
19 Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. James 1:19
3. Decide you don’t have to win
Next steps
- Repent – Confess past careless words.
- Restrain – Pause before speaking (James 1:19)
- Replace – Speak blessings, not burdens (Proverbs 18:21).