“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
The “righteous” here isn’t some holier-than-thou perfectionist; it’s the person tuned into God’s wisdom. It’s like they’ve got a built-in filter that screens out the snarky comeback or the gossip that doesn’t belong. Meanwhile, the “wicked”? Well, their mouths are like vending machines stuck on dispensing bad takes—everything that comes out is unhelpful or just plain harmful.
But let’s be real: we’ve all been on both sides of this verse. One minute, you’re offering encouragement like you’re auditioning to be someone’s personal cheerleader; the next, you’re blurting out something that makes you cringe before the sound even leaves your lips. (Yes, that’s me every Thanksgiving dinner.)
What’s the secret sauce, then? It’s about letting God shape what comes out of our mouths. Prayer, reflection, and maybe—just maybe—pausing for a second before speaking (revolutionary idea, right?). When we do, our words become like a hot cup of coffee on a cold morning: comforting, energizing, and exactly what’s needed.
So next time you’re about to speak, ask yourself: Is this acceptable—as in, helpful, kind, or truthful? Or is it something that will earn me the verbal equivalent of a speeding ticket? After all, Proverbs reminds us that wisdom isn’t just knowing the right thing; it’s saying it, too.
Now excuse me while I work on that filter myself. Baby steps, people.
Personal Prayer
Heavenly Father, guard my tongue against carelessness and negativity. Slow me down when I’m quick to speak and remind me to pause and seek You first. When I face moments of conflict or tension, let my responses reflect Your love and peace, not my pride or frustration.
Lord, may my lips be a vessel for Your goodness. Make me an encourager, a truth-teller, and a peacemaker through the words I speak. Help me bring light into dark places and hope into heavy hearts—all for Your glory.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.