Don’t Talk About It - 7-Day Prayer GuideSample

“Let Love Turn Us Away from Our Wicked Ways” 

By: Dante Bowe & Andrea Fisher

Scripture: Proverbs 15:1

“A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger” (Proverbs 15:1, NIV).

Big idea

Words can be used in many ways. They can be meaningful and healing, offer optimism and encouragement to someone in despair, and resolve disputes. A kind, compassionate, thoughtful, or caring word can calm troubled waters, give hope to the hopeless, heal a broken heart, and be a light to those around us. However, hateful, cruel, harsh, or careless words can be used to wound, discourage, or create disagreements by being a disgusting odor that echoes what is in our minds while stirring up strife. 

When someone provokes anger, their words feel like a sharp knife that leads to pain, and even in some cases, revenge. When you provoke someone to anger with words or actions, at that moment, you are unconcerned with their well-being, the condition of your soul, or the glory of the Kingdom of God. If you love God, why would you want to provoke anger in someone who is also made in His image? Those who love God are careful of their words, so their tongue does not lead to sin by provoking others to anger (Psalm 39:1). 

Reflection: 

· Proverbs 29:22

· Ephesians 4:31-32

· Proverbs 29:11

Personal reflection – Journal your response to the questions below:

When was the last time that someone's words hurt you? What emotions did that experience trigger? How much influence for good would Proverbs 15:1 facilitate if it were applied daily within the Body of Christ and practiced in our lives, churches, and homes?

Prayer

Dear Lord, I pray that you would help me see all you created as fellow image-bearers of Christ. Forgive me for the times that I may have provoked others with my words, help me with that. Thank you for this reminder today to put your glory above what I want to do or say. Thank you for your word and how it can help us in our relationships. May I be mindful of my words. In Jesus Name, I pray, amen!