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Use Words Carefully
CGG Weekly by Gary MontgomeryHuman nature often leads to alienation through the use of demeaning and sarcastic comments, causing considerable harm in relationships. Cruel words can wound deeply, cutting emotionally like a knife, and their impact often lasts far longer than physical injuries. Words are powerful; they carry weight either to injure or to heal. Inappropriate words can humiliate, while good words can calm, heal, and build up, lifting the weak into a positive frame of mind. The pervasive influence of media and societal norms has ingrained a mentality of using put-downs and snide remarks, often seen in television, advertising, and workplaces. This passive-aggressive speech, laced with pride and arrogance, seeks to establish superiority by belittling others, damaging relationships irreparably. Research highlights the severe consequences of such verbal aggression, including reduced self-esteem, job dissatisfaction, and broken relationships, with effects sometimes worse than other forms of harassment. Scriptural guidance urges restraint in speech, emphasizing that harmful words should be replaced with those that edify and impart grace to the hearers. Jesus warns that every careless word will be accounted for in the day of judgment, underscoring the importance of mindful speech. As followers of Christ, we are called to live by His standards, showing love through our words, supporting and building each other up as we move toward God's Kingdom. We must refrain from evil speech, turning instead to compassion and humility, ensuring that even in jest, our words do not injure but express love, fulfilling God's law.
Fruit of the Flesh - On Conflict
Sermonette by Bill OnisickAs God's chosen saints, we must not let our keyboard or mouth defile us. Godly conversation includes stifling the urge to win the argument at all costs.
Simplifying Life (Part Four)
Sermon by David F. MaasWe must maintain a Christ-centered tranquility and peace in a hurried, end-time world characterized by overload and debilitating pressure.
Ecclesiastes Resumed (Part Thirty-Seven): Ecclesiastes 10:12-19
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughAs teachers, we are all burdened with an unholy tongue, but we need to rule it to produce only holy speech. Ecclesiastes 10 focuses on a leader using gracious speech.
Many Excuses
Sermon by John W. RitenbaughWe need to avoid the trap of self-justification, allowing our hasty words to lure us into sin. We must be quick to listen, and slow to speak.
Impure Language Destroyed
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsPoisoned and perverted language will be destroyed in God's kingdom, when purified hearts will speak a pure language.