Starter:
The Bible says our tongue is like a fire, and that a small fire can burn down a large forest. The problem is that we don’t realize how much trouble we can cause by our words until after we’ve said something. We must be careful about the words we choose, especially when we’re really angry. When you get mad just try to slow down and take a deep breath before you say anything. And sometimes it’s best not to say anything at all!
Weekly Memory Verse:
“Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger; for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God.”
James 1:19-20
Discussion Questions:
Beginner: We are to be quick to __________, slow to ____________, and slow to ___________. (point at your ears, mouth, and heart as you say this with your kids)
Intermediate: What does it mean to be quick to hear? What does it mean to be slow to speak? What does it mean to be slow to anger?
Advanced: Why do we need to be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger? Can you think of a time when you got into trouble with your mouth? Would it have helped to listen more and talk less? Why does it help to think before you speak?
Recommended Activity:
Song: Angry Words
Angry words! O let them never, from the tongue unbridled slip,
May the heart’s best impulse ever, check them ere they soil the lip.
Chorus
Love one another thus saith the Savior,
Children obey the Father’s blest command,
Love one another thus saith the Savior,
Children obey His blest command.
Love is much too pure and holy, friendship is too sacred far,
For a moment’s reckless folly, thus to desolate and mar
Chorus
Angry words are lightly spoken, bitterest thoughts are rashly stirred,
Brightest links of life are broken, by a single angry word.
Chorus