Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join James, a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life's biggest questions and helps us find God's solutions to life's struggles. Learn the power of living by God's grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are on a search for freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Lessons for Life with James Long, Jr.
Speak Life: Using Words to Encourage and Empower
Join us as we explore three actionable steps to harness the power of our speech: pausing before we speak, offering constructive feedback, and extending grace through kind words. James also leads us in a heartfelt prayer, seeking God's guidance to control our tongues and reflect His heart in our words. Whether you're navigating difficult conversations or simply wanting to spread more positivity, this episode provides invaluable insights and a pathway to lasting transformation through the power of Christ's love and grace.
ABOUT JAMES AND LESSONS FOR LIFE
Are you longing to find answers to the deeper issues of life? Join Dr. James Long, Jr., a pastor, counselor, and university professor with over 30 years of experience. Hear James as he tackles some of life’s biggest questions and helps us find God’s solutions to life’s struggles. Learn the power of living by God’s grace and for His glory. Experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Jesus Christ alone. If you are in search of freedom, you will love being part of this conversation. Subscribe, and enjoy the show!
Links
Website – https://jameslongjr.org/
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/drjameslongjr
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/drjameslongjr/
Apple Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/applepodcast
Google Podcast – https://jameslongjr.org/googlepodcast
Have you ever stopped to think about the power your words carry? Every conversation has the potential to either lift someone up or tear them down. Today's devotional reminds us of the incredible responsibility we have as followers of Christ to use our words for good. Let's explore how we can be more intentional in how we speak to others. Well, hello, my name is James Long Jr. I am a pastor, counselor and university professor. Welcome to Lessons for Life, where I help people whose pain from their past or their present is influencing their perspective on life, through teaching them about a person, the Lord Jesus Christ, principles and promises from God's Word and giving them a pathway for change. My goal is to guide you towards peace, hope and joy. In today's session, we'll be exploring how God's truth can transform your life and how to experience the joy of forgiveness and freedom found in Christ alone.
Speaker 1:Well, the passage of Scripture that we will be considering today is found in Ephesians 4.29. It says this Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as it is good for building up as fits the occasion that it may give grace to those who hear. Here's the devotional thought. In this verse, paul warns us against letting any corrupting talk escape our lips. The Greek word for corrupting refers to something rotten or spoiled, like bad fruit or decaying food. Just as those things are harmful to our bodies, destructive words can harm the soul of those who hear them. Paul doesn't stop there. He calls us to replace that negativity with words that build up and give grace. Our words can offer life-giving, encouragement, direction and hope.
Speaker 1:When we speak, we should aim to leave people better than we found them, even in difficult conversations. We can communicate in ways that promote growth, healing and understanding. Communicate in ways that promote growth, healing and understanding, whether in casual conversations, correction or counsel. Let our words be seasoned with grace, reflecting the love of Christ, bringing it home. Here are three ways to apply Ephesians 4, verse 29 in your life 1. Stop before you speak. Before saying something that could tear down, pause and ask yourself is this building someone up? 2. Speak to build up. When addressing challenges or conflicts, focus on constructive feedback that encourages growth.
Speaker 1:3. Give grace. Remember that grace is not just what we receive from God, but what we can extend to others through kind, uplifting words. Let us pray. Lord, help me to control my tongue and to use my words wisely. Teach me to speak with grace, encouraging others and building them up with love. May my words reflect your heart and bring glory to you. In Jesus' name, werorg, that's jameslongjrorg. There you can also join our Lessons for Life, monthly membership or our online group coaching program, where you will find powerful coaching videos, a supportive community and step-by-step guidance for lasting transformation. Remember, true change is possible when you walk in God's grace and for His glory. Until next time, may you find peace, hope and joy in Christ alone. Blessings.
