Title
We Are in the Construction Business
Scripture
There is one who speaks like the piercing of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health.
(Proverbs 12:18)
Devotional
You do not necessarily have to tear down before you can build-up. Edification always builds. Speaking correction seldom entails curt, sharp words. Proverbs furthermore says that, “A gentle tongue breaks the bone.” (1) And, “A soft answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” (2) We are not in the demolition business. We are in the construction business. We are builders, not destroyers.
Do your words always cut and injure, or do they promote health? If there is to be any cutting, let the Word of God do it, not you. Degrading and insulting does not encourage or edify. These things only destroy and weaken. If you find yourself always tearing down, you most likely are weakly attempting to build yourself up. We mistakenly think that if we belittle another, we edify ourselves. No, you simply degrade both yourself and the other person. Therefore, speak words of encouragement. Speak words that build. Speak words that promote health.
(1) Proverbs 25:15, (2) Proverbs 15:1
Text For The Day
Proverbs 12:18: There is one who speaks like the piercings of a sword, but the tongue of the wise promotes health.
Thought For The Day
“Be humble and gentle in your conversation; and of few words, I charge you; but always pertinent when you speak.” William Penn, founder of Pennsylvania
Questions To Ponder
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Is there any other sword that the believer is to use other than the Word of God? Consider Ephesians 6:17.
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Does a sharp word have to come from a sharp tongue? Consider: Proverbs 15:1 and 25:15.
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Are your words uplifting or demeaning, sharp or soothing, gracious or grave, godly or worldly?
Morning Study Guide
Defining: “The tongue of the wise” James says of the tongue: “The tongue is a little member and boasts great things… the tongue is a fire.” Sticks and stones may break your bones, but words will start wars or bring peace.
Referencing: “The tongue of the wise uses knowledge rightly, but the mouth of fools pours forth foolishness,” Proverbs 15:2.
Applying: Words have meanings, use them honestly and wisely. Speak the truth in love. Anyone can tear down, but it takes wisdom to build.