June 4, 2020<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The book of Proverbs is a collection of short sayings in the Old Testament meant to instill wisdom <\/em><\/strong>in God\u2019s people. As we read, it is important to remember that a proverb is a statement which is generally<\/em> true in principle, not a universally <\/em>true promise. Let\u2019s dig into the Word together and allow the Lord to shape our hearts, our minds, and our lives in his wisdom over the next month!<\/p>\n\n\n\n A major theme in chapter 18 of the book of Proverbs is the way in which we use our words. The tongue is small but powerful; it is able to bring great shame and ruin (v.6-7, 13) or great honor and good (v.20). In verse 21 the author takes it a step further, stating \u201cDeath and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruits.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n We see that the way in which we use our words are incredibly important: the words we choose can change the course of our entire lives in a moment (see James 3:2-6)! Jesus said that we will be judged according to \u201cevery careless word [we] speak\u201d (Matthew 12:36), and that the words we say reveal the condition of our hearts (Luke 6:45). <\/p>\n\n\n\n Our words can impart life, or they can inflict harm. They can be full of grace or full of destruction. As we seek to live in God\u2019s wisdom in following after Jesus, we must<\/em> be prudent in the way we use our words! Verbal communication is a gift from God; let\u2019s use it to speak grace and truth!<\/p>\n\n\n\n