The Wise, The Foolish And The Power Of Words
BRD REFLECTION 2025
Proverbs 12, 13 and Psalms 110 (NIV)
(Angela Tan, from Small Group Ministry)
READ:
Proverbs 12 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Proverbs 12 contrasts one who is righteous and wise with one who is wicked and evil and the results of their actions. They can be distinguished by the way they learn and accept discipline, how they think, how they view work and do work, by their actions and words.
The righteous and wise man loves instruction, loves knowledge and accepts correction. He plans to do what is right and good and will listen to advice.
He is diligent and works hard with his hands and is rewarded by the fruit of his labour. There is no room for laziness.
His words bring healing and he only speaks words of truth: He does not lie as it displeases God. The wise will be approved by God and will stand firm. He will be rewarded with good things and the way of the righteous ultimately leads to life.
APPLY:
The verses that stood out for me in this chapter had to do with how we use our tongue. Words like lips, tongue, talk, speech, advice and words are repeated in several verses. Verse 18 describes how words can pierce like sword thrusts but the tongue of the wise brings healing. My words can hurt but they can also heal and encourage. Words are powerful. I am warned not to be trapped by sinful talk v13 which can happen when we are grumbling, and to not react in anger or annoyance v16. I am reminded that in the digital age, the written word is just as important as speech. I need to be thoughtful and careful when responding to people online and on text messages. Truth needs to always be spoken or expressed but it needs to be done with love and wisdom so that my words bring healing and not condemnation.
DO:
I will be disciplined in meditating on God’s Word daily so that I will grow in wisdom and righteousness, able to handle His Word accurately and reflect His righteousness.
I have been created by God for good works Eph 2:10. I should work hard and diligently with the work God has given to me, to be a blessing to those around me.
I will allow God to use me each day to speak His truth and life into the lives of the people I encounter each day. That I will always have words of encouragement with people I meet.
PRAY:
Father, teach me Your ways. Help me to walk in the path that leads to righteous living. Jesus, help me to reflect You in my words and deeds. Guard my mouth so that the words I say bring Your love, comfort and healing to those who need You so that they may experience the abundant life that only You can give. Amen.
