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Proverbs-15

The Power of Words: A Devotional Study on Proverbs 15​

Introduction​

As a believer, we all understand the importance of the words we speak. Colossians 3:16 reminds us to "let the word of Christ dwell in you richly," and in James 3:5-6, we're encouraged to "consider how you listen" and that "a small amount of true wisdom ispoured out [by God]. and it is able to yield great breathing [energy]," indicating that our words matter. Proverbs 15, in particular, highlights the significant role words play.

Section 1: The tongue and its effects (Proverbs 15:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: The tongue can be a powerhouse for good or evil. Our words have the ability to build up or tear down. James 3:9-10 speaks of this duality, describing the tongue as a "tiny spark" that "sets a mighty forest [ablaze]." In Proverbs 15:1, we're befittingly reminded of this duality, where we're implored to "ged the tongue [of evil-doers]." This is a stern call to guard our words and be cautious of the negative impact they could have on others, as well as ourselves. Reading further into these verses, we're also challenged to "conserve [our] lips" and "keep [our] mind" (v2) in silence at times, and to "speak integrity" (v4) at others. The verse "a word [spoken] out of the right [place] is sweet" (v21) speaks to the importance of delivery - the right words at the right time - that brings sweetness to relationships.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what areas are you known for your use of words?
  • How can you become more mindful of your use of words and the impact they have on others?
  • In what areas do you lack integrity in your speech?

Section 2: The wisdom-rich vs. the lack of wisdom-rich (Proverbs 15:6-12)​

Devotional Thought: The proverb "the lips of the wise [people] spread knowledge" (v1) speaks to the significance of passing on knowledge. The wise person passes on knowledge and offers wisdom to those who seek it. The fosterage of wisdom is imperative since it helps in making better choices. This is contrasted with the person who "feeds on violence" and the "foul [words] that come from his mouth" (v18). The man of God is urged "to soak up instruction" and "accept [words] from [a] discipler" (v12) to avoid being like this contrasting character.

Reflection Questions:

  • Whose words do you listen to?
  • In what ways do you foster and pass on the wisdom that has been given to you?
  • How can you soak up God's words better and avoid listening to "foul [words]"?

Section 3: The importance of timely change (Proverbs 15:13-17)​

Devotional Thought: In Proverbs 15:13, we're implored to "beware of [slothful yoke-bearers]," warning us of the dangers of being lazy in our work. Proverbs 15:15 offers us a new hope, saying "all the [good] things that [people] covet [are] not [necessarily] worth [their] while." It urges us to change our urges, our desires, and focus on what is truly valuable, indicating that a change of heart could lessen the heartache and anguish life throws our way.

Reflection Questions:

  • Are your desires in sync with your hard work?
  • How can you shift your perspective to focus on the truly valuable things?
  • Are you aware of any yoke-bearers that slow you down in fulfilling your purpose?

Section 4: The significance in the eyes of the Lord (Proverbs 15:18-20)​

Devotional Thought: Proverbs 15:3 sums it all up. It reminds us that "the eyes of the Lord [are] in every place." The omnipresence of God is key in every decision we make. We need to remember that every deed we perform is in the sight of God. The worship of God needs to be of utmost importance as it can be the driving force behind our speech and our actions.

Reflection Questions:

  • How often do you reflect on the omnipresence of God while making decisions?
  • How does the omnipresence of God impact the ways you communicate and behave?
  • Are you entrenched enough in God's word to sustain the practice of making choices that please God?

Conclusion:​

As we delve deeper into the book of proverbs, we come to realize that our words matter. The verses from Cherry picked for this devotional signify the importance of speech - speaking the right words, choosing wisely, listening to the right people, and imbibing Biblical knowledge. May we continually reflect on the impact our words have on others, and may our hearts be deeply influenced by the omnipresence of God as we stand with open ears and mouths to listen to Him intently.