Theme: How to manage our inner conversations ("soul talk") through God's Word and the Holy Spirit.
ποΈ Introduction
Everyone talks to themselves β internally or out loud.
These inner conversations strongly influence our emotions, decisions, and spiritual growth.
Much of this "self-talk" is pre-recorded from childhood experiences β sometimes false or harmful.
God wants to enter that inner conversation and transform it.
The Purpose of "Soul Talk"
"Soul talk" = the ongoing conversation inside our minds.
God can use it to shape our character, heal our emotions, and transform our thinking.
Spiritual growth is not just about going to church, reading, or serving β it's also about inner renewal.
Four Foundations for Change
The Word of God Speaks
2 Timothy 3:16β17
- β’ All Scripture is inspired by God
- β’ God primarily speaks through His Word
- β’ No substitute for studying and internalizing Scripture
God Empowers Change
Philippians 2:13
- β’ God works in us both to will and to act according to His purpose
- β’ Every command from God includes the power and desire to obey it
The Spirit Empowers Self-Control
2 Timothy 1:7
- β’ God gives us power, love, and self-control
- β’ We can't say, "I can't change." God's Spirit makes growth possible
Transformation by Renewed Thinking
Romans 12:2
- β’ True change begins in the mind
- β’ When our thoughts align with God's Word, our character and feelings follow
Main Text: Psalm 55 β David's "On the Ledge" Moment
David is betrayed by his son Absalom and close friends. His soul cries:
"If only I had wings like a dove, I would fly away and find rest."
β Psalm 55:6
David's Inner Dialogue:
Stage 1: Distress
"I am restless⦠my heart is in anguish⦠fear and trembling beset me."
Stage 2: Escape Desire
"If only I could fly away."
We all experience moments when we want to run or disappear.
Stage 3: Turning Point
"But I call to God, and the Lord will save me." (v.16)
David chooses to speak truth to his soul β confidence replaces fear.
Stage 4: Restored Faith
"Cast your burden on the Lord, and He will sustain you." (v.22)
The Danger of False Soul Talk
Our inner voice exaggerates and distorts reality:
β "No one cares." (Psalm 142:4)
β "I can't take anymore."
β "I'll always be alone / unloved / unsuccessful."
This self-talk is not true, but it feels true and keeps us in despair.
Biblical Examples:
-
β’
Lamentations 1:20 β "I am in torment within."
-
β’
2 Corinthians 1:8β10 β Paul despaired of life itself, yet learned to rely on God.
-
β’
1 Corinthians 10:13 β God always provides a way through.
Learning to Hear God's Voice
Like Elijah in 1 Kings 19, God's voice is a still small voice, not the noise of fear or emotion.
To hear Him, we must:
Know His Word well enough to recognize His tone.
Quiet the inner noise of fear and lies.
Replace false thoughts with truthful declarations.
Practical "Soul Talk" from Scripture
Psalm 46:1β2
"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear."
Isaiah 41:10; 46:4
"Do not fear, for I am with you⦠I will uphold you with my righteous right hand⦠I will sustain you and rescue you."
Hebrews 13:5β6
"Never will I leave you or forsake you. The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid."
2 Corinthians 1:8β10
"He has delivered us⦠and will deliver us again."
π‘ Tip: Personalize these verses.
Say: "Lincoln, do not fear, for I am with you."
This changes the emotional atmosphere of your soul.
Three A's of Healthy Soul Talk
Acknowledgment
Be aware of what your inner voice is saying.
Assessment
Test your thoughts: are they aligned with God's truth?
Adjustment
Replace lies with God's promises and truth.
Conclusion
God desires to transform your inner world β your "soul talk."
As you rely on His Word, your emotions, thoughts, and life change.
The goal: to trust God fully, freely, and forever β and experience the abundant life He promised.
βοΈ Core Takeaway
"Let God enter your inner conversation. When your soul says, 'I can't,' let His Word say, 'You can β because I am with you.'"
π΅ Final worship and closing prayer