Tag: Conflict

January 25, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Danger of Foolish Words

Opening Verse

“A fool’s lips enter into contention, and his mouth calleth for strokes.” — Proverbs 18:6 (KJV)

Introduction

Our words have the power to build relationships or destroy them. Proverbs 18:6 warns us about the consequences of careless, foolish speech. Words spoken without wisdom often lead to conflict, strife, and unnecessary trouble.

Devotional Story

Tom was known for his sharp tongue. At family gatherings, he had a habit of making sarcastic remarks, often turning lighthearted conversations into heated debates. His brother, Paul, frequently warned him, saying, “Tom, your words are like matches—one spark can start a fire.”

One day, during a neighborhood meeting, Tom’s words ignited chaos. Frustrated with the group’s decisions, he publicly mocked their efforts. His comments stirred up anger, and the room erupted into an argument. Feeling embarrassed and isolated, Tom realized too late the damage he had caused.

Later that week, Tom reflected on his behavior. He remembered Paul’s words and came across Proverbs 18:6 during his Bible reading. He finally understood the truth: his reckless words had invited trouble, not just for others, but for himself.

Tom prayed for God’s help to tame his tongue. Over time, he learned to speak with wisdom, bringing peace instead of division.

What This Means

Proverbs 18:6 is a sobering reminder that foolish speech can lead to conflict, even violence. The words we choose matter, and once spoken, they cannot be taken back. God calls us to be careful and intentional with our speech, avoiding words that provoke anger or discord.

Instead of foolishness, let us seek to reflect wisdom in our conversations, speaking life, encouragement, and truth.

Think About This

  • Have your words ever caused unnecessary conflict? How can you avoid this in the future?
  • Do you seek God’s wisdom before you speak, especially in emotionally charged situations?

Prayer

Father, teach me to guard my tongue and to speak with wisdom and love. Help me to avoid foolish and careless words that bring strife. Let my speech reflect Your truth and bring peace to those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” — Proverbs 18:21 (KJV)

October 17, 2024 Devotional Post a Comment

The Power of Faith in Times of Division

Opening Verse

“Watch ye, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong.”
—1 Corinthians 16:13 (KJV)

Introduction

Life is full of moments when we find ourselves in the midst of division or conflict. Whether in relationships, communities, or spiritual battles, how we respond during these moments defines the outcome. Will we stand firm in faith, or will we give in to the pressures of division? Scripture encourages us to stay strong and hold fast to our faith, for our response in such moments determines the victory we will have in Christ.

Devotional Story

Consider the story of Nehemiah, a man who faced division and opposition while rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. As he worked, his enemies—Sanballat, Tobiah, and others—attempted to stop him. They sowed seeds of fear, discouragement, and division among the people. But Nehemiah did not let the division deter him. He chose to act with wisdom, prayer, and perseverance, knowing that his actions would determine the future of the city.

Nehemiah’s story teaches us that, in the face of division, our focus should remain on God’s will. He stationed workers on the wall, half holding weapons, and the other half building. His preparedness and reliance on God ensured that the walls were completed despite the opposition.

What This Means

When we face division—whether it’s external or internal spiritual conflict—our response should be grounded in faith and the Word of God. Just as Nehemiah did, we must remain vigilant, prayerful, and ready to fight spiritual battles. Our outcome is not determined by the conflict itself but by how we act in the middle of it. If we stand strong, trusting in the Lord’s promises, the victory is ours.

Think About This

  • What divisions or conflicts are you currently facing, and how are you responding?
  • Are you acting in faith, or are you allowing fear and discouragement to affect your actions?
  • Remember that how you act during times of division will shape the outcome. Will you trust in God’s promises to lead you to victory?

Prayer

Lord, in times of conflict and division, help me to stand firm in my faith. Remind me that my actions during these moments matter. Strengthen me to act with courage, wisdom, and grace, knowing that You are with me in every battle. Let my trust in You determine the victory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the Lord thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.”
—Deuteronomy 31:6 (KJV)