Verse of the Day 10/21

 

Proverbs 13:3 Whoever guards his mouth preserves his life;
    he who opens wide his lips comes to ruin.  English Standard Version (ESV)

 

It is somewhat ironic or perhaps tragic that this most beautiful fall season with all its color coincides with political campaigns and all of its nastiness and "off color" remarks.  Over  the years how many candidates met their downfall by something foolishly said on the campaign trail or even in what were supposed to be closed door meetings?  How many times have we seen politicians caught on video saying one thing in one political race only to spout the exact opposite the next time around when the political climate changed.  I would say there is more of that climate change than what is being referenced in nature.

 

But before we dump too much on the politicians what about ourselves.  How careful are we to "guard our mouths" to be careful about what we say.  The Bible is full of verses about guarding our tongue.  The book of James speaks at length about the subject.  Out of the same mouth come blessing and cursing - this should never be.

 

I like that way The Message puts it, "careful words make a careful life" (v.3).  The opposite would also be true, reckless words make for a reckless life. 

 

Let's look back to verse two from The Message - "the good acquire a taste for helpful conversation".  It doesn't come naturally, it is an acquired taste, something that is learned but can become second nature.  It will take time, effort and the direction of the Spirit in our lives, but it is possible.  Do you know someone who energetically (v.4 below) puts this into practice? Seemingly without trying "they have something to show for their lives".  May it be said of us.

 

Let's not be like the political "bullies" - pushing and shoving their way through life,  but be "the good" acquiring a taste for helpful conversation"  (v.2).  

 

In Christ,
Mike

 

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Eph 1:7 In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace  NIV

 

Proverbs 13:2-4The Message (MSG)

² The good acquire a taste for helpful conversation;
    bullies push and shove their way through life.

³ Careful words make for a careful life;
    careless talk may ruin everything.

⁴ Indolence wants it all and gets nothing;
    the energetic have something to show for their lives.