“Let Scripture explain Scripture.” In other words, don’t prooftext. Don’t make up what you want the text to say. One ploy of false teachers is to grab one Scripture verse, rip it out of context, and twist it to fit their own designs. The plethora of cults proves that. As I read Proverbs 15 this morning my mind went into overdrive because there were so many verses that jumped out to me clamoring for my highlighter. Since no one verse raised its hand and said, “Ooooh, ooooh, ooooh, pick me!” I decided several verses were worthy of mention. My approach today will be different from my usual devotion. I’ll print the verse and maybe make a comment or two, but for the most part will allow you to make your own application. Here goes:
15:1- “A gentle answer deflects anger, but harsh words make tempers flare.” Gentleness wins; hotheads lose.
15:14- “A wise person is hungry for knowledge, while the fool feeds on trash.” This one made me chuckle. Remember the old phrase GIGO?
15:16- “Better to have little with fear for the Lord, than to have great treasure and inner turmoil.” Is a wealthy person really much better off? Do they really have it made? Think again.
15:28- “The heart of the godly thinks carefully before speaking; the mouth of the wicked overflows with evil words.” Before speaking engage brain and heart.
Those are just a few in the chapter. Why not take a moment and read Proverbs 15. Is there one which particularly stands out to you? Why? Care to share?
{Note: All Scripture from the New Living Translation}
Proverbs 15:4 NLT
[4] Gentle words are a tree of life; a deceitful tongue crushes the spirit.
You can use your mouth for build up or tear down, so choose your words wisely, you can’t take them back.
Good one Ryan! With some great advice
When we read Scripture, let’s take it in context and not selectively choose what appeals to us at the moment. I will take your advice, Bill, and read Proverbs 15 today.
Blessings!
Wise words Martha. And glad to hear you will take the suggestion
I love this but have been slow to learn. I finally have started to understand. Not and excuse but a possible contributing factor. Coming from a law enforcement background though we did come in contact with many wonderful people we tended to be in most situations where conflict was the issue. Unfortunately using kind words with most of these people they took that as a weakness and were emboldened. Being a Christian as a police officer requires unending focus on the Word and prayer. I was blessed to have a Christian fellow officer and we would get together and pray but the struggles always came. Thankful that is behind me. Anger was easy, being loving requires dedication.
I have been slow to learn some things as well Dexter. Hard heads need cracked. 🙂 i simply can’t imagine the pressure a police officer is under when it comes to making wise choices and finding the right words and knowing how to use them. Thanks for coming by and commenting
Love your blog Pastor.
Thanks Dexter. I’m humbled and honored you would enjoy it.
I was going to pick four but sense Ryan did I will go with 23 now. There are times when it’s important to just listen, and comfort someone. Be still with them. When the time is right, and you can give words of encouragement that will give the person hope. The right words at the right time can be a blessings. We need to lift people up that are hurting, not break their hearts and bring them deeper into pain.
Good choice Gail! Saying the right thing at the right time is so important. Knowing when to speak and when to listen is a real gift.