Power of the Tongue: Student Handout

Student Handout 

Main Scripture – James 3 (NLT)

James 3:2 “We all stumble in many ways. If anyone could control every part of their body, they would be perfect and could control themselves in every way.”James 3:3–6 “We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go—even though the winds are strong. The tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And among all the parts of the body, the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself.”James 3:10 “With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings created in God’s likeness. And so blessing and cursing come pouring from the same mouth. Surely, this isn’t right!”James 3:17–18 “But the wisdom from above is first of all pure. It is also peace-loving, gentle at all times, and willing to yield to others. It is full of mercy and the fruit of good deeds. It shows no favoritism and is always sincere. And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness.”

 Truth to Remember

“Your tongue is small—but it holds so much power.” Your words can bring life, hope, healing, and encouragement. Let kindness, peace, and wisdom flow from your lips—so you can be a light in the world, even when everything around you seems dark.

Encouraging Scriptures

• Proverbs 12:22 (NIV) “The Lord detests lying lips, but **he delights in people who are trustworthy.” 

• Philippians 4:13 (NIV) “I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”  You are not alone in the hard moments—through Christ, you have the strength to stand, speak, and shine.

5 Ways to Speak

1. Self-Talk How you speak in private matters.

   • What do you say about yourself?

   • What does God say about you? Choose words of truth and encouragement—God delights in the words you speak to yourself.

2. Talking About Others Your words impact others more than you know.

   • Encourage—a life lifted by words can change everything.

   • Reflection: How does it feel when someone speaks life over you?

3. Lying vs. Truth-Telling

   • Proverbs 12:22 reminds us: “The Lord detests lying lips…” God takes truth seriously, and so should we.

   • Speak truth with humility and integrity.

4. Gossip Gossip often stems from hurt, jealousy, or misunderstanding—but it wounds more than it heals.

   • Instead, ask: “How can I speak truthfully and kindly?”

   • You can be the friend who brings life and clarity, not chaos.

5. Mind Talk Our thoughts shape our words.

   • James 3:17 says wisdom from above is pure, peace-loving, gentle, merciful, sincere.

   • Set your mind on Jesus—even when thoughts swirl, He anchors truth and calm.

 Encouraging Reminders

• Your tongue is controllable with God's help. Philippians 4:13 gives you the strength to keep going—even when it's hard.

• You’re not perfect—and that’s OK. Mistakes are moments to learn. Each time you choose words of grace, you build better habits and grow stronger.

 Reflection Questions

1. What’s one negative thing you’ve caught yourself saying recently?

2. How could you reframe it into something truthful and kind?

3. How will you speak life into someone else this week?

Your mouth might be small—but your words hold power—power to create, to heal, to uuplift, and to revive. Keep your mind set on Jesus, let His Word rule your heart, and speak in ways that reflect His love, strength, and peace.

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