Scriptures:

· James 3:6, NIV · Proverbs 10:19 · Proverbs 18:21a, NIV · James 3:3-6 · Proverbs 4:23 · Romans 10:17

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Two principles (2 more will be available in Episode 7):

 

1. Set an example: (be slow to speak, stop and pray, apologize, stop mid-sentence)

Try : “Stop talking right now. Mom needs a minute to think about the right thing to say.” Or, “Everyone needs to take a break from one another while I pray about how to approach this.”

 

2. Give grace and do-overs: ‘in-the-moment’ do-overs. Below are some ways to redirect a conversation. (Depending on the child's age, some may work better than others.)

 Try: “Please stop. You need to rephrase that.” “I know you’re mad, but is there another way you can tell your sister how you’re feeling?” “You’re such a kind, smart kid. I know you can choose better words than that. Try again.” “Let’s start this whole conversation over. One, two, three, go!

 

Call to Action:

The Bible says that God considers the heart when he looks at a person (Jeremiah 17:10). Consider this as you pay attention to your words this week (and the words of your kiddos!). Remember, "what comes out of the mouth gets its start in the heart."

 

Pray over every heart in your family this week. Please think of the four principles we talked about this week and look for opportunities to practice one of them. Perhaps you will even find that it's you who needs grace and a do-over.

 

Reflection Questions: 

1. Is there a specific time of day you are losing control of your tongue? It could be when the kids get home from school or after you make dinner. Why do you think this time is hard for you? How can you give your tongue intentionally to the Lord during this time?

 

2. Do you notice when your kids have trouble taming their tongues (maybe when frustrated, scared, angry, or tired)? How can you mentally prepare yourself to respond in a godly way to this happening?

 

3. Does it help you to consider why your child said something over what they said? How will this cause you to change your response to them?

 

Mediation Verses:

“But what comes out of the mouth gets its start in the heart. It’s from the heart that we vomit up evil arguments.” Matthew 15:18-19a MSG

 

“Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me.” Psalm 51:11-12 NIV

 

“When words are many, transgression is not lacking, but whoever restrains his lips is prudent.” Proverbs 10:19

 

“The tongue has the power of life and death.” Proverbs 18:21a, NIV

 

“If we put bits into the mouths of horses so that they obey us, we guide their whole bodies as well. Look at the ships also: though they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are guided by a very small rudder wherever the will of the pilot directs. So also the tongue is a small member, yet it boasts of great things.” James 3:3-6

 

I pray this blesses you! Send me a message if you need prayer or encouragement  hello@jennamariemasters.com