Proverbs Week 8 Devotional-Weight of Our Words

Proverbs Study Week 8 Devotional
The Weight of Our Words


“There are six things the Lord hates, seven that are detestable to him:  haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that shed innocent blood, a heart that devises wicked schemes, feet that are quick to rush into evil, a false witness who pours out lies and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.”  –Proverbs 6:16-19 (NIV)

Words Have Weight

“Hate” is a strong word. When Scripture says there are things the Lord hates — actions that are “detestable” to Him — it demands our attention. Among these, notice how many involve the use of words: a lying tongue, a false witness, and a person who stirs up conflict. This repetition isn’t by accident. God is deeply concerned with how we use our words because they reveal the condition of our hearts.

There’s an old saying: “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” I don’t think I’ve ever heard anything so untrue. Words can break a spirit, wound a heart, and leave lasting scars. But words can also be a source of life, encouragement, and healing.

The Power of Our Words

Our words reflect the state of our hearts. As Jesus said:
“For out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks.”
  –Matthew 12:34 (ESV)

When we speak, we give others a glimpse into what’s truly in our hearts — whether it’s love, kindness, and truth, or bitterness, deceit, and anger. Our words can either mirror God’s heart or betray it.

James gives us a sobering reminder about the double-edged nature of our tongues:

“With it we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God. From the same mouth come blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.”  –James 3:9-10 (ESV)

How often do we speak words of worship one moment and words of criticism the next? James reminds us that this inconsistency is not fitting for followers of Christ. If our words are to reflect God’s character, they must be rooted in love, grace, and truth.

Words Reveal Character

Just as God reveals His heart through His Word, we reveal our hearts through our words. Do our words echo His kindness, patience, and love? Or do they reflect pride, deception, and a desire to stir up discord?

When we speak truthfully and graciously, we honor God and reflect His nature. But when we lie, gossip, or sow division, we align ourselves with what God detests.

A Call to Examine Our Words

Consider this: What do your words reveal about your heart? Are you quick to speak words that build others up or tear them down? Do your conversations reflect a heart that is surrendered to God or one that is ruled by selfish desires?

Reflection Questions:

1.  When was the last time your words hurt someone? How did you respond afterward?

2.  Do you find it easier to speak words of praise to God than to speak words of kindness to others? Why?

3.  How can you become more intentional about using your words to bring life and not harm?

Practical Application:

• Pause Before You Speak: Take a moment to evaluate your words before they leave your mouth. Ask yourself, “Do these words honor God and build others up?”
  
  
• Pray for a Clean Heart: Ask God to transform your heart so that your words reflect His love and truth.
  
  
• Speak Life Intentionally: Make a conscious effort to encourage, affirm, and speak truth in love to those around you.

Prayer:  Lord, I know that my words have the power to either build up or tear down. Help me to guard my tongue and use my words to bring life, encouragement, and truth. Purify my heart so that what flows from my mouth reflects Your character. May my words honor You and bless those around me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.