https://open.spotify.com/episode/4EeeE2nGydh4nTbD9a6PWC?si=FfrKiTJrRNSD35IfWNo-cg
The Power of Words
G'day friends, it's Pastor Joe here wrapping up our five-week study on words from the book of Proverbs. We've delved into how our speech shapes our lives, and today we focus on Proverbs 31:26, describing the virtuous woman who opens her mouth with skillful and godly wisdom, with kindness on her tongue, offering counsel and instruction.
This Proverbs 31 woman is a powerhouse – productive, forward-thinking, a devoted wife and mother. She exemplifies how words reveal our true character. Ladies, you play a vital role in guiding society with your discerning wisdom. I've learnt the hard way – ignoring my wife Linda's intuition once cost us our first home! Scripture affirms wisdom is for all, men and women alike (1 Corinthians 1:30). Don't let anyone diminish your intelligence; God's truth is available to lifelong learners who prioritise His Word, managing habits and time effectively, just like this remarkable woman.
Over the weeks, we've explored Proverbs verses on words, and you can find the full study at livingsuccess.org. Now, let's tie it off with key scriptures outside Proverbs.
In Matthew 12:33-37, Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for accusing Him of demonic power after healing a blind and mute man. He declares: "The tree is known by its fruit" – and Proverbs 18 reminds us words are that fruit. Out of the heart's abundance, the mouth speaks (v34). Good hearts produce good words; evil ones, evil. We'll give account for every idle word on judgment day – by words we're justified or condemned, not just actions.
Luke 6:45 echoes this: The good person brings forth good from their heart's treasure; the evil, evil. Our mouths reveal our inner world. To change our hearts? Psalm 119:11 – "I have stored up your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." Read, memorise, meditate on Scripture daily; let it transform knowledge into revelation.
Ephesians 4:29-31 urges: Let no unwholesome words come from your mouth, but only those building others up, blessing hearers – and remember, the spirit world listens too. Don't grieve the Holy Spirit with bitterness, wrath, anger, clamour, slander, or malice. Instead, be kind, tender-hearted, forgiving, as Christ forgave us.
James 3:5-8 warns the tongue is like a ship's rudder or a small spark igniting a forest fire – small but capable of great destruction. It contaminates the body, sets life's course ablaze, full of deadly poison. No human can tame it, but God can. We must choose words that honour, putting away bitterness and slander.
Finally, 1 Peter 3:10 (quoting Psalm 34): To enjoy life and see good days, keep your tongue from evil and lips from deceit. Obedient speech invites God's blessings; disobedient, His discipline.
Friends, words matter profoundly – they're the rudder of our lives. Handwrite Proverbs daily, even just 5-10 verses, to embed God's wisdom. I pray this study blesses you.
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