Almost half the verses in this chapter have to do directly with the words that come out of our mouths. In several other verses, words are not explicitly stated, but are clearly implied.
Words are weapons of mass destruction or life-giving water.
Please God, give me the grace to use them as the latter.
Which verses seemed new to you in this chapter?
We are very convicted, as a family, this week to strive for kinder words to each other. My husband and I wish for our children to hear correction and discipline with words of kindness and encouragement instead of words that critize and harm. Easy said than done but I know God is calling us to a higher standard.
ReplyDeleteI shared with Rick and I now share with you that for the first time in 12 years I cursed at my kids. Not exactly sure where it came from but it was in my heart and had been brewing. I'm thankful that my kids said nothing in response but were gracious when I came back to ask forgiveness. It is parenting in it's finest moment when our children get to see us mess up and then repent and ask forgiveness.
So this week, as a group, our house is committed to kinder words!! Praise God for His Holy direction!
Julia West
Thank you, Julia, for sharing. I live alone so don't have much opportunity to curse at anyone here at home. But these studies about words have made me realize that I sometimes have words in my heart that although aren't spoken, are judged as though they were. I'm committed to having kinder words in my heart.
ReplyDeleteVerse 28 made me chuckle when I read it:
ReplyDelete28 Even a fool is thought wise if he keeps silent,
and discerning if he holds his tongue.
I'm learning to be a better listener...
Vs. 16 - "Of what use is money in the hand of a fool, since he has no desire to get wisdom?"
ReplyDeleteThis is why Solomon asked for wisdom: Because no matter WHAT he was given as king, it would be to no good end without wisdom.
Every blessing I have- every relationship, every bit of knowledge, every possession, every dime, every opportunity - HAS to have the touch of wisdom. I must be told by God what to do with all of that in order to bring Him the most glory.
I equate it to having a car but not knowing how to drive. The MOST I could get out of it is to point to it and say "Look at that! That's mine."
The Spirit in me intends to guide me where I can do the most good for the most people in HIS name. NOTHING is mine, but "owning" it all without applying wisdom is stealing from God.
And Julia, thanks for your honesty and willingness to model repentance and reconciliation for your kids.
ReplyDeleteVerse 5 helped me change my view of those who are poor. I used to have a jaded view of "the least of these"; however, I realize that they are humans made in God image just like me. Plus, one os us could be in their shoes if we're not careful. Verse 6, I found very interesting because I read in my notes that "gray hair" is a blessing to be able to live so see one grandchildren. May God bless me to see that happen(if it is in His will). Verse 22: I love this because I need some good medicine(for the soul) from time to time. Verse 27, I need help in this department. I'm not even-tempered at times.
ReplyDeleteVerses 3, 15, 27.
ReplyDelete