Episode Details

Conflict Resolution & Forgiveness Do you know that the intent behind your words is usually irrelevant?  Have you ever been on the receiving end of hurtful, accidental words and the offender begins explaining what they really meant? At that moment it's irritating and it's irrelevant, because in those moments, we don't need an explanation. In those moments when we've been hurt by someone's words we really need something else.  This week we look at what we really need when hurtful words have been spoken. James 3:2-6 Discussion topics .ugb-28778b3 h1,.ugb-28778b3 h2,.ugb-28778b3 h3,.ugb-28778b3 h4,.ugb-28778b3 h5,.ugb-28778b3 h6{color:#313131}.ugb-28778b3 p,.ugb-28778b3 li,.ugb-28778b3 label,.ugb-28778b3 table{color:#313131}.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > h1,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > h2,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > h3,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > h4,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > h5,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > h6{color:#313131}.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > p,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > ol li,.ugb-28778b3-content-wrapper > ul li{color:#313131}.ugb-28778b3.ugb-container{justify-content:center;background-color:#313131}.ugb-28778b3.ugb-container:before{background-color:#313131} 1. Read James 3:5–6. What stands out to you? What are some ways our words compare to a fire? 2. Can you remember a story (funny or otherwise) when you said one thing and meant something entirely different?  What happened? 3. Why do we rush to explain ourselves rather than simply owning our guilt? Explaining feels urgent and appropriate in the moment. Why? 4. What can you do to remind yourself to opt for humility and sensitivity rather than an explanation next time you start a “word fire”? 5. Talk through the Matthew 18 process of restoring a friendship: Go to them. Take a third party, not as an advocate, but as a translator. Allow spiritual leaders to speak into your lives. Check out our other audio series and video playlists that can help you take your next step in a growing relationship with Jesus Christ.