Listen to this devotion
One Language or Two?
In the Word
The heart of the wise makes his speech judicious and adds persuasiveness to his lips (Proverbs 16:23).
Of the Word
Are you bilingual? Many people grew up speaking one language at home and learning another at school. Others left a homeland and were forced to adopt a new language when they resettled in a foreign country. Still others studied hard, immersing themselves in a new language in order to speak it fluently.
But think of a different type of bilingualism — one in which people speak a “church language” and a much different “work language.” The two languages may denote a divided character — a godly one for Sunday, a not-so-godly one for the rest of the week.
Language is an indicator of heart condition. The writer of Proverbs reminds us that the heart of a wise man guides his mouth. Our daily prayer should be that of the psalmist, Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable in your sight, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer (Psalm 19:14).
A Point to Ponder: What words can I use to show that Jesus lives in my heart?
Walking with my Lord
Lord, when I am tempted to speak harsh or critical words, stop me. Calm my heart so that people will know that You are in residence there. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
Mustard Seed: The Word: Wisdom for Living. Authors: Marcia Gomulka and Myrna Lou Meyer. 28/32 ©2015 Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, 801 Seminary Place Ste. L010, St. Louis, MO 63105. Code: #40198
Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations were taken from ESV Bible® (The Holy Bible English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
