James 3:1-12

James has much to say concerning our mouth/words. Every chapter speaks to this issue (see 1:13; 1:26; 2:7; 2:12; 3:1-12; 4:11; 5:12).

James must have been a good student of his half-brother, Jesus, as He spoke of the importance of what we speak. See Matthew 12:33-37 for a good example.

When Jesus says “out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks,” He tells us something very important. We need to focus on what is going on in our hearts, not simply changing the behavior of our mouth. As you think about the categories from Proverbs (below), ask yourself, “What is going on in my heart when my mouth sins in these ways?”

In going through the OT book of Proverbs, Troy found dozens of verses specifically addressing our words. Proverbs 8:6-9 and 18:21 give some general wisdom on words. Following through the rest of the book of Proverbs we find words of wisdom in at least these categories when it comes to our words:
- Careful words (10:19 ; 17:28)
- Truthful words (12:22 ; 14:25)
- Pleasant words (15:1 ; 16:24)
- Encouraging words (15:23 ; 25:11)
- Productive words (12:18 ; 13:3)

What other passages (Proverbs or otherwise) address our words?

Take some time to read through Proverbs 18. What words of wisdom do you find in this one chapter? Try to find the “heart” that is represented by the words?

What one specific area of your words is God pointing out to you? What is going on in your heart that causes you to stumble in this way? Encourage everyone to contribute to this discussion