Raising Kids With The Wisdom of God : Youth Counseling Session

1. The Power of Words

• Proverbs 18:21 – "Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits."
• Our words carry the power to bring life (encouragement, wisdom, and love) or death (hurt, gossip, and division).
• Ephesians 4:29 – "Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear."
• We should use words to uplift, not tear down.

2. The Dangers of Speaking Negatively

A. Gossip and Slander

• Proverbs 16:28 – "A perverse person stirs up conflict, and a gossip separates close friends."
• Gossip damages friendships and trust.
• James 4:11 – "Do not speak evil against one another, brothers."
• Speaking negatively about others goes against God’s command to love our neighbors.

B. Discouragement and Criticism

• Colossians 3:8 – "But now you must rid yourselves of all such things as these: anger, rage, malice, slander, and filthy language from your lips."
• Harsh words come from an impure heart and can lead to division and pain.
• Matthew 12:36 – "But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken."
• Every word we say matters and will be judged.

3. Speaking Words of Life and Encouragement

Instead of negative speech, the Bible calls us to speak with kindness, encouragement, and truth.

• Proverbs 15:1 – "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger."
• Speaking gently can calm situations rather than escalate them.
• 1 Thessalonians 5:11 – "Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing."
• Encouraging words can uplift and strengthen relationships.
• James 1:19 – "Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry."
• Taking time to think before speaking prevents unnecessary pain.

4. Practical Steps for Youth to Control Their Speech

1.    Think Before Speaking – Ask: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?

2.    Pray for Self-Control – "Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips." (Psalm 141:3)

3.    Surround Yourself with Positive Influences – "Do not be misled: ‘Bad company corrupts good character.’" (1 Corinthians 15:33)

4.    Apologize When Necessary – If you’ve hurt someone with words, seek forgiveness.

5.    Use Words to Encourage – Practice complimenting and uplifting others.

In Conclusion

Speaking negatively can have serious consequences, but we can learn to use our words for good through God's guidance. Let us strive to follow Ephesians 4:32, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you."