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#AdaWisdomChallenge

READ Proverbs 14 (listen). WRITE out one verse and SHARE with someone.

Proverbs 14 is part of the proverbs of Solomon (Proverbs 10-22). These proverbs are typically two contrasting lines, giving instruction on how to live out wisdom in all of life. Proverbs 14 includes themes geared toward kindness, contempt and the heart.

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

The words of the reckless pierce like swords, but the tongue of the wise brings healing. Proverbs 12:18

Read: Proverbs 12:18

Listen: Proverbs 12

TODAY’S MESSAGE

You enter the living room where your three-year-old found a pair of sewing shears left on the coffee table. There’s stuffing coming out of a hole pierced in the middle of your sofa, the cushions are missing their fringe, and your child sits with half of their bangs cut off.  This is what the reckless use of a sharp object looks like.

Solomon clearly understands how damaging reckless words are when slung from a thoughtless mouth. Like a sword is a weapon, so is the tongue. Both need to be handled with care because they can inflict permanent wounds.  So does recklessly using sarcastic words, insensitive jokes or carelessly hurting someone when we complain about something in our life they may need or want.

We need to use words that heal and build up instead. Dr. Emerson Eggerichs gives us excellent help in his book, Before You Hit Send. He instructs us to ask these four questions before we write or speak, “Is it true, is it kind, is it necessary and is it clear?” Every word we use is an opportunity to build up or do harm.

IN YOUR CHAIR TIME TODAY

Pray and ask God to help you pay attention to how others respond to your words. Being aware of reactions is the first step in learning how to be the kind of communicator who encourages and brings life to others.

Download a printable PDF of the BTW week here.

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