Hands-on Faith for Families– week of October 30, 2017
Theme: Let God Direct You
Christ Is Lord of My Words
Scripture: Let your speech always be gracious… (Colossians 4:6a ESV)
Play: Have a tongue twister contest. See who can say “She sells seashells by the seashore” fastest without making a mistake. If that’s too easy, try “The sixth sick sheik’s sixth sheep’s sick.”
Talk: Sometimes, we really need to think about what we’re saying. That’s particularly true of tongue twisters — but also in situations when we’re angry or annoyed with someone. Ephesians 4:29 says, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up.”
Unwholesome talk can be unkind, greedy or proud words, and it can hurt those around us, but kind and gentle words can encourage others. Jesus wants to help us build others up, so He offers to be Lord of all we say. He doesn’t take over and speak for us as if we’re puppets, but He will give us wisdom so we know the right things to say. How can you encourage someone with your words today?
Pray: Ask God to help you use your words for the good of others.
— Debbie McDaniel