Last week was a difficult week for America. I found myself waking and walking around with a heavy heart.
As I scroll through social media, I read so many vile, hateful, and condescending posts. I pondered the darkness that has infiltrated our society.
Each morning I turn to the word of God for His insight, guidance, and a reminder of how, as a follower of Christ, I am to conduct myself.
The verse of the day was Proverbs 11:24, on generosity. But another verse caught my attention, Proverbs 10:31-32.
"The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice, but the tongue that deceives will be cut off. The lips of the godly speak helpful words, but the mouth of the wicked speaks perverse words."
Are my words helpful? A simple question to ask before posting or commenting. The advice seems like useful guidance.
I then flipped back to the beginning of chapter 10, and as I read through it, a theme arose.
"The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions." (v.11)
Are my words life-giving?
"Hatred stirs up quarrels, but love makes up for all offenses." (v.12)
Am I loving?
"Too much talk leads to sin. Be sensible and keep your mouth shut." (v.19)
Should I keep my mouth shut?
"The words of the godly encourage many, but fools are destroyed by their lack of common sense."
Are my words encouraging?
As I continued into chapter 11, several other verses captured my attention.
"Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom." (v.2)
Am I humble or prideful?
"With their words, the godless destroy their friends, but knowledge will rescue the righteous." (v.9)
Are my words hurting my friends?
"Upright citizens are good for the city and make it prosper, but the talk of the wicked tears it apart."
Are making actions making my community better? Are my words tearing my community apart?
"It is foolish to belittle one's neighbor; a sensible person keeps quiet." (v. 12)
Are my words belittling my neighbor? Aren't we taught to love our neighbors and our enemies?
"Your kindness will reward you, but your cruelty will destroy you." (v.17)
Am I kind?
Today I am grateful for the words and guidance God has provided me. When I want to respond or post on emotion, I am reminded of the effects my words have on my heart and mind, my friends, neighbors, and community.
Blessings,
Stephanie
Inspirational Speaker and Award-Winning Author of "The Giving Challenge: 40 Days to a More Generous Life" and “The Gratitude Challenge: 41 Days to a Happier, Healthier, & More Content Life”
