Today’s Scripture Passage:
Proverbs 15:1-2 & Proverbs 16: 21 & 23-24
Key Verse:
Kind words are like honey—
sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs 16:24 (NLT)
I recently received a gift from a friend which included a note about a conversation we were part of several years ago. The words of the note took me back in time and I once again felt the impact of truth shared that day. I felt the joy the conversation created in me all over again.
This was a timely reminder of something I needed to remember.
My thoughts influence my words!
Yes! All of my words! That’s a BIG reminder, right?!
The gift and note reminded me of a time when the words spoken were a blessing. But what about times when critical or careless words are spoken?
Have you ever been wounded by words?
Why? Because words reveal the thoughts of the speaker.
Have you ever wounded someone with your words?
I’m guilty! I too often find my mind returning to the same train of thought. I hop on and allow it to take me for a ride. Before I even realize it, I’m far from where I want to be. The train I’m on is affecting both my words and choices and bringing anything BUT benefit to me or those around me.
“insanity is repeating the same mistakes and expecting different results.”
This “definition of insanity” first appeared in 1981, in a document published by Narcotics Anonymous.
We must make different choices if we want different results!
Easy to know, but harder to do.
I have every intention of NEVER letting my thoughts return to the same old train, but I often find myself hopping back on and going for another ride.
But how do I stop? I’m learning I must…
1-Be alert to my train of thought and which direction it’s taking me!
2-Be ready to jump on another train of thought – immediately, without hesitation! This requires me to know which thought train I want to ride.
I don’t know about you, but I want my thoughts going in a direction that helps me speak words of life and healing to all who hear them!
We all live a life of influence, but …
What kind of influence are we?
Jesus Journaling:
1 Be aware which train your thoughts are riding.
2 Read Philippians 4:8. Begin memorizing one Bible verse at a time. Use those verses to redirect your thoughts when you find them going in the wrong direction.
3 Read Psalm 19:14. Make these words a daily prayer. Be alert to how the LORD uses your prayers to bring sweetness and healing into your relationships.
FYI: Although I know these truths, I still get on the wrong train of thought and allow my words to deliver hurt instead of healing. I’m praying the words of Psalm 19:14 for myself right alongside you!
If you have not yet met Jesus, you can meet Him today. He created you. He loves you. He wants you to be a part of His family. I encourage you to step into the life He created you to live. You will still have the troubles of this world, but you will no longer be facing them alone. I’m praying for you! https://peacewithgod.net/mobile/?utm_source=Microsoft&utm_medium=CPC&utm_term=HowToGoToHeaven&utm_campaign=USPWGMobileSearchMic
Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, a Division of Tyndale House Ministries, Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.