SUPPORTING SCRIPTURE
“How to get started reading the Bible”—we’ve all googled it before. No matter how far you’ve come on your faith journey, reading the Bible can be hard! We’re right there with you. We see these Scripture meditations as a way to read Scripture in a digestible way. Let’s start together, one verse at a time!
What Should I Say?
It’s important to use our voices– we were made to communicate. There are times when God could be placing us in a specific time or place to stand up for the voiceless or to use our words to show the love and truth of his Kingdom. Yet other times, our voices might just be another addition to the cacophony of opinions and noises that already surround us daily.
More often than we’d like to admit, our opinions might not be necessary… or even all that helpful. The Bible encourages us to be discerning about our speech, including knowing when it might be better to not comment at all.
As difficult as this can seem, it can also be freeing to not feel compelled to speak when we’re overwhelmed by differing perspectives, conflicting statements, or people we find frustrating.
If we can’t be certain that our words will communicate what is true, right, or beautiful… maybe it’s best to practice a bit of silence.
Proverbs 10:19-21
“19 Sin is not ended by multiplying words,
but the prudent hold their tongues.
20 The tongue of the righteous is choice silver,
but the heart of the wicked is of little value.
21 The lips of the righteous nourish many,
but fools die for lack of sense.”
Observations from the Text
- Sometimes, it’s wisest to stay silent (v. 19)
- Being discerning with our words makes them more valuable (v. 20)
- Right and true words can be life-giving to those who hear them (v. 21)
Prayers of Response
Jesus, you knew when to ask questions and when to speak. Help me do the same.
Spirit of truth, give me patience, love, and confidence when I talk to others.
Prayer Requests
Wise Father, I have a hard time controlling my words around ______. Help me to communicate well.
Word of Life, help me discern between silence out of fear and silence out of wisdom.
Prayers of Readiness
God who hears me, help me to listen today more than I speak.
Righteous Lord, I want my words to be used to help nourish the hearts of others.
We believe simple Scripture meditations like this help us in our mission to creatively explore how we connect with God in the ordinary, extraordinary, everyday moments of life. For more Scripture meditations, visit this page!