Today's Reading - Proverbs 25-31
Background
Today we complete the book of Proverbs, reading various collections of wisdom from different authors.
Devotional - The Power of Words
No, that is not a sidewalk. It is a trail worn in the rock of the Tsankawi Ruins near Santa Fe, New Mexico. Over the centuries the feet of the people living on that hill cut deep paths into the solid rock. Amazing.
Had Solomon known about the Tsankawi, he might have worded Proverbs 25:15 a little differently. Proverbs are inspired observations about life which reveal God's truth. Some are simple statements of wisdom and others are vivid illustrations, like the one we focus on today.
A ruler can be persuaded through patience,and a gentle tongue can break a bone.What on earth can that second line mean? There is no tongue that is strong enough or hard enough to shatter a bone. It's impossible. But the figure of speech tells a story. Words have a powerful effect. One who patiently speaks what is right and good over time can build great things. One who speaks with malice, who tears down and insults can destroy. Like the paths of the Tsankawi worn in the rock over time, words have their effects - both good and evil.
When someone is not listening to the gospel you proclaim or the advice you are giving, don't freak out and lose your cool. It isn't necessary. When you are speaking the truth of God you can wait patiently for the Spirit to use you and to bring about their desired effect. Like the grooves in the rock, it may take time, but God will use your words if they are from his word to accomplish great things.
Father, may the words of my mouth and meditations of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O Lord. And may they, over time, wear grooves of truth in this world.
Think and Pray
Your words have powerful effects. Are they cutting channels for the flow of the gospel, of the truth of God? Or are they breaking bones?
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