“The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable: but the mouth of the wicked speaketh frowardness.“
— Proverbs 10:32 KJV
Reflection on Today's Verse
How often do we blurt out the first thing that comes to mind without considering whether it’s helpful or hurtful? It’s like spiritual road rage but in everyday conversation. God’s calling us to something better here. He’s asking us to be intentional, to know what’s “acceptable,” which is just a fancy way of saying “life-giving.”
And let’s not pretend this is easy. Some days, holding back a sarcastic zinger feels like denying ourselves oxygen. But righteousness doesn’t mean we never speak hard truths—it means we season our words with grace, wisdom, and, dare I say, love.
So next time you’re about to say something spicy, remember: your words are either building someone up or tearing them down. No middle ground. Be the GPS, not the chainsaw. Or at the very least, aim for the kind of toothpaste that leaves a fresh taste, not regret.
Personal Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of words and the power they hold. You’ve given me a voice to reflect Your goodness, but I confess that sometimes my lips speak more like the world than like You. Help me, Lord, to know what is right and acceptable in Your eyes and to speak it boldly. Teach me to pause before I speak, to consider the impact of my words, and to choose kindness, truth, and encouragement over sarcasm, criticism, or harm.
When my heart is tempted to lash out or my mind fills with impatience, fill me with Your Spirit. Let Your wisdom guide my thoughts, so my words become a wellspring of life to those around me. Give me the courage to apologize when I fail and the humility to keep growing.
May my lips bring glory to You, Lord, and may my words reflect Your love, wisdom, and grace in every conversation I have.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.