Tag: Speech

February 2, 2025 Devotional Post a Comment

The Power of Our Words

Opening Verse

“Therewith bless we God, even the Father; and therewith curse we men, which are made after the similitude of God.” – James 3:9 (KJV)

Introduction

Words are powerful. With the same mouth, we can praise God in one moment and tear down others in the next. James warns us about this contradiction—how can we bless God while cursing those made in His image? Our speech reflects our heart, and as followers of Christ, we must be mindful of how we use our words.

Devotional Story

Michael was known for leading worship at church. His voice carried through the congregation as he passionately sang praises to God. People admired his devotion. But outside of church, his words were different.

At work, he was quick to snap at his coworkers. He mocked the mistakes of others and was known for his sharp tongue. One afternoon, a coworker, David, overheard him belittling another employee. Later, David approached Michael and said, “I thought you were a man of God. How can you lead worship on Sunday and speak like this during the week?”

Michael was stunned. He hadn’t realized how his words contradicted his faith. That night, he prayed, asking God to help him tame his tongue. He knew that if his words didn’t align with his worship, his testimony would mean nothing.

What This Means

James 3:9 reminds us that our words must be consistent with our faith. We cannot worship God while speaking harshly about others, for they are made in His image. Every person we encounter carries God’s imprint. If we truly love God, our words should reflect His love and truth, not destruction and bitterness.

Instead of using our words to harm, we should use them to build up, encourage, and speak life.

Think About This

  • Do your words reflect Christ in all areas of your life, not just in church?
  • Have you ever spoken negatively about someone and later regretted it?
  • How can you use your words to glorify God and uplift others?

Prayer

Lord, forgive me for the times I have used my words to harm instead of heal. Help me to speak words that reflect Your love and kindness. Let my speech be a testimony of Your grace in my life. Teach me to honor You not just in worship but in every conversation I have. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Closing Verse

“Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.” – Ephesians 4:29 (KJV)

November 21, 2023 Devotional Post a Comment

The Quiet Quest

“A prudent man conceals knowledge, But the heart of fools proclaims foolishness.” – Proverbs 12:23 (NKJV)

 

Introduction:

In this simple lesson, we learn about the power of keeping quiet at the right time. The Bible tells us that smart people know when to hold back what they know, but foolish people just say whatever they think.

Devotional Story:

In a small town, there were two guys, John and Thomas. John was quiet and careful with his words, but Thomas always blurted out whatever was on his mind.

One time, a rumor spread about a hidden treasure in the town. Thomas quickly said he knew where it was, even though he didn’t have any proof. This caused a lot of excitement and trouble among the townspeople.

John, who had actually found an old map suggesting where the treasure might be, didn’t say anything. He knew that talking too much could cause problems.

While Thomas’s wild guesses led nowhere and left people disappointed, John quietly talked to the town’s wise leaders about his map. Together, they made a secret plan to look into it without causing a fuss.

What This Means:

The Bible verse from Proverbs 12:23 teaches us it’s smart to think before we speak. John’s decision to keep quiet until the right time was a good example of being careful and keeping the peace.

Think About This:

Think about times when you spoke without thinking or when you wisely chose to stay quiet. Remember how your words affect others. Try to speak thoughtfully today, thinking about what your words do.

Prayer:

Dear God, help me to know when to talk and when to be quiet. Let my words be helpful, not upsetting or confusing. Help me to use my words wisely, like You do. Amen.

Closing Verse:

“Even a fool is counted wise when he holds his peace; When he shuts his lips, he is considered perceptive.” – Proverbs 17:28 (NKJV)