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DAY 10: Verses That Will Solidify Your Path Forward

In our chaotic culture, calls for civility are often met with chiding and critique, as some people spout off and defend their incivility and attacks on one another as appropriate responses to what they see as hatred and bad behavior on behalf of ideological opponents.

It's as though the "two wrongs don't make a right" lesson was either never taught or has simply been thrown out the window in exchange for free-flowing emotions fueled by a social media era that encourages unrestraint and, at times, dehumanization.

While anger is understandable, and frustration is a normal human response to the things we dislike that happen around us, Proverbs 10 has plenty to say about the power of the tongue (i.e. how that anger and frustration manifests) — and, arguably, the text speaks to the need for every person, regardless of his or her perspective, to rationally and calmly discuss things.

We are called to be better. We are instructed to love one another — and there's no world in which expletive-laden attacks are going to progress any conversation. 

Beyond that, when we allow ourselves to go unrestrained, we hurt ourselves and our witness.

Here are eight verses from Proverbs 10 that should force us to pause, reflect (NIV):

- "Blessings crown the head of the righteous, but violence overwhelms the mouth of the wicked." -Proverbs 10:6

- "The mouth of the righteous is a fountain of life, but the mouth of the wicked conceals violence." Proverbs 10:11

- "Hatred stirs up conflict, but love covers over all wrongs." -Proverbs 10:12- "Wisdom is found on the lips of the discerning, but a rod is for the back of one who has no sense." -Proverbs 10:13

- "The wise store up knowledge, but the mouth of a fool invites ruin." -Proverbs 10:14 

- "Whoever conceals hatred with lying lips, and spreads slander is a fool." Proverbs 10:18

- "Sin is not ended by multiplying words, but the prudent hold their tongues." -Proverbs 10:19

- "The lips of the righteous know what finds favor, but the mouth of the wicked only what is perverse." -Proverbs 10:32

No matter the issue, treat one another with grace, peace and truth. How are you interacting today? Clearly, we're called to be better. 

Hopefully, this devotional has helped you focus in on various areas where you can improve and grow your faith.