October 26 - Words That Hit Different

OCTOBER 26 - Words That Hit Different3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 26:18–19; Psalm 121; Revelation 10–11//⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠3-Year Bible Devotional Book Available on Amazon⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠//________________________________________“Like a madman who throws firebrands, arrows, and death is the man who deceives his neighbor and says, ‘I am only joking!’” — Proverbs 26:18–19“I lift up my eyes to the hills. From where does my help come? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” — Psalm 121:1–2“And he said to me, ‘You must again prophesy about many peoples and nations and languages and kings.’” — Revelation 10:11________________________________________Have you ever had someone say something hurtful and then try to play it off with, “Just kidding!”? Maybe it was a joke that cut too deep or sarcasm that didn’t feel so funny. Proverbs 26:18–19 calls out that behavior—it’s like throwing weapons around without caring who gets hit. In contrast, Psalm 121 reminds us that when life gets confusing or painful, our true help doesn’t come from people trying to be funny or cool—it comes from God, who never lets us down. And in Revelation 10–11, we see John being told to speak truth again, even when it’s hard. That’s because God’s truth, spoken with love, has real power to change lives.________________________________________THINK ABOUT IT1. Jokes Can Hurt: Have you ever said something “as a joke” that actually hurt someone? What does Proverbs 26 teach us about taking responsibility for our words?2. Look Up for Help: Psalm 121 reminds us where to look when life feels overwhelming. What are some ways you can “lift your eyes” to God in your daily routine?3. Speak Truth with Courage: John was told to speak God’s truth again. How can you be bold about your faith without being harsh? Where is God asking you to speak up?________________________________________BOTTOM LINEWords carry weight. Be someone whose words heal, not hurt—and look to God for the strength to speak truth with love.________________________________________PRAYERHeavenly Father, thank You for being my constant help and for teaching me to be careful with my words. Help me to speak truth with kindness and courage. When life gets messy, remind me to look up and lean on You. Use my voice to encourage and build up others. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.