April 30 - Words That Build, Lives That Shine

APRIL 30 - Words That Build, Lives That Shine3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 15:7–9; Romans 15-16//⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠//________________________________________“The lips of the wise spread knowledge; not so the hearts of fools. The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord, but the prayer of the upright is acceptable to him.” — Proverbs 15:7–8 (ESV)“May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus.” — Romans 15:5 (ESV)“I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them.” — Romans 16:17 (ESV)________________________________________Have you ever said something you wished you could take back? Words are powerful—they can either build someone up or break them down in seconds. Proverbs 15 reminds us that wise words spread knowledge and life, while foolish words bring trouble. In Romans 15, Paul urges believers to live in harmony, and in Romans 16, he warns against people who cause division with their words or actions.What you say matters. But it’s not just about avoiding mean comments or gossip; it’s about intentionally using your words to bring encouragement, wisdom, and unity. Whether it’s in a group chat, at school, or with family, your words carry weight—and God cares about how you use them.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Power of Words: How can you use your words this week to spread encouragement and wisdom instead of drama or negativity (Proverbs 15:7)?2. Harmony Over Division: What steps can you take to live in harmony with others, even when people around you stir up conflict (Romans 15:5; 16:17)?3. Prayer Over Performance: Proverbs reminds us that God values sincere Prayer over empty actions. How can you make Prayer part of your daily life instead of just going through the motions?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEYour words and actions can either bring life and unity or cause division—choose to speak and live in a way that honors God.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for the gift of words and the chance to use them for good. Help me speak life, bring encouragement, and work for unity instead of conflict. Teach me to pray sincerely and to honor You in everything I say and do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.