Read the Book: April - JuneSample

Week 22

Proverbs 12

Overflow of The Heart

Have you ever heard a common saying and thought, “Where did that come from?” Language goes back so far that sometimes, it’s impossible to find the exact origin, but the ones that have stood the test of time have done so for a reason. They’re sayings we have passed on from generation to generation because they’re simply good for us, no matter if we’re eight or eighty. Scripture is full of these truths that have stood the test of time, and God wrote them because He knew we’d need them for all time. 

We have all heard this phrase: “Think before you speak.” Our parents, grandparents, teachers, and coaches have drilled that into us from the very start. But it all began with God warning us about our words in Proverbs 12. Many of the verses point to the power of our words, but specifically two of them sum it up clearly: “An evil man is trapped by his rebellious speech, but a righteous one escapes from trouble … There is life in the path of righteousness, but another path leads to death” (v. 13, 28).

There is power in our words. In Matthew 12:33-37, Jesus says, “From the mouth speaks the overflow of the heart.” In Proverbs 12, the warning against rebellious speech is that our words can trap us in a world of hurt. Our words, if we’re not careful, can hurt, slander, and deceive others, and they can be wildly revealing of the condition of our hearts. How are we doing inside when all the outside hears is spewed venom? 

Think before you speak. If our words are the overflow of our heart, show the world an outpouring of Jesus. Speak words of truth, justice, and love in a way that reflects the very heart of our God. 

Family Connection: Get two bowls of water, two food coloring dyes, and cooked pasta. Place the cooked pasta in the two bowls with colored water. What happened to the pasta? It turned the color of the water in which it was placed. Read Proverbs 12:26. Just like pasta, the people we surround ourselves with will influence us! Pray and ask God for friendships that build one another up and encourage each other to love others.