April 8 - Wise Words, Full Hearts

APRIL 8 - Wise Words, Full Hearts3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 14:3–4; Mark 8//⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠3-Year Bible Devotional Book (Year Two) Available on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠//________________________________________“By the mouth of a fool comes a rod for his back, but the lips of the wise will preserve them. Where there are no oxen, the manger is clean, but abundant crops come by the strength of the ox.” — Proverbs 14:3–4 (ESV)“For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” — Mark 8:36 (ESV)________________________________________Have you ever said something and instantly wished you could take it back? We’ve all been there. Proverbs 14:3 reminds us that our words have power—foolish words can hurt us, but wise words protect us. And then Mark 8:36 hits us with the big question: what’s the point of having everything if we lose what truly matters—our soul, our character, our relationship with God?It’s so easy to focus on chasing popularity, success, or stuff, but God calls us to something better. A clean manger might look nice (Proverbs 14:4), but it means nothing’s happening—no work, no growth, no life. Real growth takes work, patience, and choosing what lasts over what fades. The good news? With God’s help, your words, choices, and priorities can build something real and lasting.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Words That Build: Are your words helping or hurting? What’s one way you can speak life into someone this week?2. Real Success: How does Mark 8:36 challenge the way you think about success, popularity, or achievements?3. Growth Takes Work: A full barn is messy but shows life and progress (Proverbs 14:4). What “messy” work is God calling you to do so you can grow spiritually?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEA life that honors God values wise words, real growth, and what lasts longer than this world can offer.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for reminding me that my words and choices matter. Help me to speak wisely, value what lasts, and not trade my soul for things that won’t satisfy. Teach me to embrace the work and growth You call me to so I can live a life that honors You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.