May 31st~Kind, True, and Necessary

Proverbs 14:1-16:33

We read 101 individual proverbs. None of them had any connection at all on the surface, which presents a challenge when trying to draw out common themes or devotional messages. However, I did notice that this set of proverbs, as in the rest of them, had much to say about words.

I believe that, in His Word, the Lord gives us some wonderful guidelines for choosing and using our words, both to glorify Him and to bless others. These guidelines can be divided into three categories, those that are kind, those that are true, and those that are necessary. Here is a good filter for the things we say. Before they come out of our mouth, we should put them through this test.

First, are our words kind? Are they intended to do good to others? Do they come from motives of tenderness and goodness? Solomon wrote, “Never let kindness get away from you. Wear it like a necklace... for kind words are like honey, sweet to the soul, healthy for the
 body” (3:3; 15:4; 16:24). Paul wrote, “Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them” (Ephesians 4:29).

Second, are our words true? Are they accurate, verifiable, and trustworthy, or are they embellished, revised, or self glorifying? Solomon said, “The godly are directed by their honesty... A truthful witness does not lie. While the talk of fools is like a rod to their backs, the words of the wise keeps them out of trouble” (11:5; 14:3, 5). Paul echoed this wisdom, “Stop telling lies, but rather let us tell our neighbors the truth” (Ephesians 4:25).

Finally, are our words necessary? Are they suitable, fit, and proper, appropriate for the need of the moment? Again, Solomon had much to say on this subject. “The godly think before speaking... From a wise mind comes wise speech... A gentle answer turns away
wrath...” (15:1, 28; 16:23). Everything that we think does not need to be said out loud.

Our words are powerful. With them we can cause people to stand up tall and straight. With them we can cause people to stoop. If we would practice using this filter – speaking only those things that are kind, true, and necessary – our words would give grace to those who hear them. “Discretion is a life-giving fountain to those who possess it...” (16:22).

Daily Reflection

How would you rate yourself in these three categories? In what areas do you need to improve?

Words that are kind

Words that are true

Words that are necessary

“The tongue is restless and evil, full of deadly poison,” so be careful how and when you use it (James 3:8). Perhaps the best filter for your words is this — only say to others what you would want others to say to you.

BiAY.org | Day 151 — 214 Days to Go