Tuesday September 9, 2014.
'The
lips of the godly speak helpful words...' Proverbs 10:32 NLT
Be Careful What You Say (1)
Your tongue can be a source of great blessing
because it can provide people with two things they need. First, it gives
wisdom. 'The mouth of the godly person gives wise advice... The lips of the
godly speak helpful words...' (Proverbs 31-32 NLT) Paul told Timothy, 'You have
heard me teach [many] things... teach these truths to other trustworthy people
who will be able to pass them on to others.' (2 Timothy 2:2 NLT) Pass on what
God has taught you to those who need guidance and are hungry for knowledge. Don't
be pushy, but don't be timid; share with them what God has shared with you. If
you give a hungry man a fish he will live for a day; if you teach him how to
fish he will live for a lifetime. Secondly, your tongue can give correction.
Nobody enjoys being corrected. But if you '...listen to constructive criticism,
you will be at home among the wise... reject discipline, you only harm
yourself... listen to correction... grow in understanding... humility precedes honor.'
(Proverbs 15:31-33 NLT) Nobody likes to risk rejection by being the
truth-teller, but: 'You can trust a friend who corrects you...' (Proverbs 27:6
CEV) Three important principles apply here. First, you speak truth on the basis
of friendship. If you haven't proven yourself, leave the truth-telling to
someone who has. You have to earn that right. Secondly, truth-telling isn't a license
to go hunting. A true friend cares about others' feelings, and speaks the truth
in love (Ephesians 4:15). Thirdly, appreciation will come-but be prepared, it
may be delayed! 'In the end, people appreciate honest criticism far more than
flattery.' (Proverbs 28:23 NLT)
Taken
from the Word for You Today Devotional
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