CRITICISM

Criticism: The expression of disapproval of someone or something on the basis of perceived faults or mistakes.2

Ephesians 4:29 Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

OUTCOME: THE “PATTERN OF THIS WORLD”

Fear, isolation, doubt, uncertainty, insecurity, dishonesty, depression, hopelessness, paralysis, self condemnation, bitterness, hatred, cynicism, critical thoughts, anger, secretiveness, defiance, resentment, self-criticism, rejection, legacy

There are beliefs that we have conformed to based on life experiences and repeated hurts and disappointments.

Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

• Who remembers critical words that were said to you when you were young?

o What is the outcome of criticism now?

o What is the legacy you want to have/leave?

“POSITIVE WORDS ARE DIFFICULT TO REMEMBER. NEGATIVE WORDS ARE DIFFICULT TO FORGET.” – Savannah Lindell3

CELEBRATION & ENCOURAGEMENT

Celebrate: to acknowledge (a significant or happy day or event) with a social gathering or enjoyable activity.1

o How will you celebrate failure?

Encourage: to give support, confidence, or hope to (someone). 1

1 Thessalonians 5:11 Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Proverbs 12:18 Reckless words pierce like a sword, but the tongue of the wise brings healing.

Proverbs 16:24 Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.

OUTCOME: “TRANSFORMED BY THE RENEWING OF YOUR MIND”

Confidence, love of others, peace, generosity, care for others, enthusiasm, energy, hope, courage, trust, thankfulness, endurance, life, optimism, connection, self-encouragement, faith, strength, purpose, value, participation, inclusion, needed, worth, legacy

Romans 12:2 Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

• Who remembers encouraging word that was said to you when you were young?

“POSITIVE WORDS ARE DIFFICULT TO REMEMBER. NEGATIVE WORDS ARE DIFFICULT TO FORGET.” – Savannah Lindell3

YOU HAVE A CHOICE: WHO ARE YOU GOING TO BE TO OTHERS?

Hebrews 3:12–13 12See to it, brothers, that none of you has a sinful, unbelieving heart that turns away from the living God. 13But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called Today, so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.

John 13:34–35 34A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. 35By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.

Matthew 3:16–17 16As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. 17And a voice from heaven said, “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.”

QUESTIONS TO DISCUSS IN LIFE GROUP OR WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Passages to consider: James 3:3-12, 13-17; Hebrews 3:13; Proverbs 18:21 Note: this could be a good week to break out into men’s and women’s groups

1. From the sermon, what was new, challenging, or insightful to you?

2. Read James 3:3-12 and Hebrews 3:13. What do you see in these passages about words and attitudes?

3. In your experience, what are examples of encouragement/celebration?

4. If you monitored your words and thoughts, what part does criticism play in your thinking and conversations? A) What role does celebration—encouragement—have in your marriage, parenting, and/or relationships?

5. Read Proverbs 18:21. What are life-giving words? What are words of death?

6. What is God showing you about this area? How will you intentionally, specifically respond?