Discussion Questions

1. Paul Tripp says, “Word problems are heart problems.” What does this mean for your own communication in family, work, or church?

2. How have you experienced the kingdom of self influencing your words? Give an example.

3. How does the concept of sacrificial love from 1 John 4 change your view of your relationships?

4. Reflect on the apple tree illustration. Where might you be trying to “apple-nail” your communication?

5. How can gratitude for God’s love shape the words you speak each day?

Daily Adult Devotions (Mon–Sat)

Monday – Confess the Heart

Scripture: Luke 6:45

Reflection: What words have revealed your heart this week? Confess your self-focused motives to God.

Prayer: “Lord, I confess that my words often betray my heart. Change me from within.”

Tuesday – Kingdom Awareness

Scripture: Galatians 5:13–15

Reflection: Which kingdom rules your heart today — self or God’s?

Prayer: “Lord, let my words serve Your kingdom, not my own.”

Wednesday – Gratitude-Fueled Love

Scripture: 1 John 4:7–12

Reflection: How does knowing God’s sacrificial love change how you speak?

Prayer: “Father, fill me with gratitude that overflows in words of love.”

Thursday – Empowered to Speak

Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3–4

Reflection: God equips you to speak with love; identify one conversation where you need His help.

Prayer: “Holy Spirit, empower me to speak truth in love today.”

Friday – Responding Instead of Reacting

Scripture: James 1:19–20

Reflection: Practice slow, thoughtful words when provoked.

Prayer: “Lord, help me pause, listen, and speak grace.”

Saturday – Walking in Grace

Scripture: Romans 12:9–21

Reflection: How can you be a conduit of God’s transforming love in your words this weekend?

Prayer: “Lord, let my words reflect Your glory and mercy.”

Children’s Devotions & Activities (Mon–Sat)

Monday:

Scripture: Luke 6:45

Activity: Draw a heart and write words that come from it. Talk about how God wants our hearts to be good.

Tuesday:

Scripture: Galatians 5:14

Activity: Make a “kind words” jar. Each day add a note about something nice you said.

Wednesday:

Scripture: 1 John 4:10

Activity: Role-play helping friends without expecting anything back.

Thursday:

Scripture: Proverbs 15:1

Activity: Soft voice challenge — practice saying something nice instead of something mean.

Friday:

Scripture: Colossians 3:12–13

Activity: Write a letter of encouragement to a family member or friend.

Saturday:

Scripture: John 13:34

Activity: “Love in action” scavenger hunt — find ways to help others at home or church.

Youth Devotions (Mon–Sat)

Monday:

Scripture: Luke 6:45

Reflection: How do your words reflect your heart?

Action: Journal your words from today and check for self-focused motives.

Tuesday:

Scripture: Galatians 5:13–15

Reflection: Identify one relationship dominated by self-kingdom vs. God-kingdom words.

Action: Pray for God to change your heart in that relationship.

Wednesday:

Scripture: 1 John 4:7–12

Reflection: How does God’s love challenge the way you communicate?

Action: Send a text or message that reflects sacrificial love.

Thursday:

Scripture: 2 Peter 1:3–4

Reflection: God gives you everything you need to speak godly words.

Action: Memorize one verse to remind yourself in tough conversations.

Friday:

Scripture: James 1:19–20

Reflection: How do you react when provoked?

Action: Practice speaking once after waiting 30 seconds in conflict.

Saturday:

Scripture: Romans 12:9–21

Reflection: Identify someone to bless with your words today.

Action: Speak a compliment, encouragement, or blessing to them.