A word aptly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver. (Proverbs 25:11)
Read Proverbs 22 today!
One word can…
1. Heal or Hurt
“The tongue that brings healing is a tree of life, but a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.” ~Proverbs 15:4
2. Promote Instruction or Advance Destruction
“The wise in heart are called discerning, and pleasant words promote instruction.” ~Proverbs 16:21
Read Proverbs 18 today!
I want to take time this week to explore the power of the tongue! Solomon mentions the power of our words about 150 times in the Proverbs. The wisest man who ever lived knew the power of words. He gave us instructions on how to promote life and avoid evil with our tongues. Let’s take a look a few words of wisdom and apply them to our week!
What does it look like when a wise man or woman speaks? And how can we become that wise person with our words?
1. A wise man or woman gives a reason for the hope within them when they talk to others.
“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect.” (1 Peter 3:15)
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always to the very end of the age.” (Matthew 28:18-20)
Lord, thank You for this instruction on how to live my life until Your return. Lord, please help me to actively be discipling others. As I walk through life, may I be aware of the opportunities around me to shine the light of Jesus. May I be ready to give an answer for the hope that I have to anyone who asks me. Read more
Two other men, both criminals, were also led out with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, there they crucified him, along with the criminals–one on his right, the other on his left. Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing…” (Luke 23:32-34)
Dear Father God, I am humbled by Jesus first words from the cross. He has been beaten beyond recognition, flogged numerous times, crowned with a crown of thorns, and has been receiving nonstop insults from those who were watching. He barely had any life left in Him. Yet, His very first words from the cross were, “Father, forgive them…”
Then he said to them, “My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death. Stay here and keep watch with me.” (Matthew 26:38)
Lord, I can’t begin to imagine how overwhelming the thought of the cross, the separation from the Father, and the weight of our sins were. Lord, thank You for not giving in to how You felt that day. Thank You for moving forward even when the weight of the world was on Your shoulders.