READ: Proverbs 4:24, 10:11, 13:3, 15:1
One of the wisest
things we can do, according to Proverbs, is guard our speech. This is SO hard
to do, isn’t it? Yet we have to intentionally and diligently seek to move in
this direction. We’re clearly told, after all, to, “put away from you crooked
speech, and put devious talk far from you” (4:24). Improper speech should be
put away from us and devious talk should be far from us. These are strong
words. It means we should double our efforts to change our speech if we’re
struggling in this area.
Of course, as in
all things that are wise, guarding our speech benefits both others and us.
We’ll discuss this more in a later day, but it’s important to note that, “the
mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life . . .” (10:11). Think of the
imagery that’s being used here! A fountain would serve as such a relief and
blessing to a thirsty body! Our words can accomplish the same for a thirsty
soul. What a wonderful invitation then to use our words in a way that brings
life to others. An exciting goal to have! Something powerful to live for!
On the flipside, much
chaos can flow from what people say, or as Proverbs notes, “. . . he who opens
wide his lips comes to ruin” (13:3). Because of this, the next four devotionals
will go into greater detail about our speech. The time spent is worth it,
because of the power of the tongue to do great good or cause great harm.
JOURNALING AND PRAYER
1.
Spend
some time in prayer taking stock of where you feel you use your words in a
godly manner, and where you need to grow. Thank God that He’s willing to go on
this journey with you. Praise Him for any growth that has taken place in the
past.
2.
Read
James 3:1-12 and take notes on what it says about the tongue and our use of
words.
